Top 10 Solar Pumps for Farming in India (PM Kusum & Magel Tyala Approved)

June 28, 2026

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Every farmer knows what it costs to run a diesel pump.

Fuel prices go up. The pump breaks down at the wrong moment. The electricity supply is unreliable. And at the end of the season, a significant portion of what was earned has gone back into keeping the water flowing.

Solar pumps change that equation completely. No fuel cost. No grid dependence. Reliable water supply during daylight hours when crops need it most. And with government schemes like PM Kusum and Maharashtra’s Magel Tyala Shetkari Solar Pump Yojana covering 90 percent or more of the installation cost for eligible farmers, the barrier to entry has dropped dramatically.

This guide covers the top 10 solar pumps for farming in India, explains how both schemes work, and helps identify the right pump for different farm sizes and water requirements.

Best Solar Pumps for Farming in India

Best Solar Pumps for Farming in India

1. Kirloskar Solar Pump
2. Shakti Pumps Solar
3. CRI Pumps Solar
4. Grundfos Solar Pump
5. Tata Power Solar Pump
6. Jain Irrigation Solar Pump
7. Luminous Solar Pump
8. SunEdison Solar Pump
9. KSB Solar Pump
10. Lubi Solar Pump

What Are PM Kusum and Magel Tyala?

PM Kusum Scheme

PM Kusum stands for Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evem Utthan Mahabhiyan. It is a central government scheme supporting solar energy adoption among farmers.

Key features of PM Kusum:

Component B specifically covers standalone solar agricultural pumps.
Eligible farmers receive up to a 90 percent subsidy on the cost of pump installation.
Pumps with capacities from 2 HP to 10 HP are covered under the scheme.
Farmers pay only 10 percent of the total cost.
State governments may contribute additional subsidies on top of central support.
Only pumps from MNRE-approved vendors qualify for the subsidy.
Applications are processed through state nodal agencies.

Magel Tyala Shetkari Solar Pump Yojana (Maharashtra)

Magel Tyala is a Maharashtra government scheme for farmers without electricity connections.

Key features of Magel Tyala:

Targets farmers in Maharashtra who lack grid power.
Provides solar pumps at heavily subsidised or near-zero cost to eligible farmers.
Priority given to small and marginal farmers.
SC, ST, and other backward-class farmers receive additional preference.
Applications processed through the Maharashtra Energy Development Agency (MEDA).
Specific pump capacity eligibility applies based on farm size.

How to Choose the Right Solar Pump for Farming

Before looking at specific brands, it’s essential to understand the right pump type and capacity.

Surface Pump vs Submersible Pump

Surface Solar Pumps:

Installed above ground near the water source.
Suitable for open wells, ponds, and canals.
Easier to install and maintain.
Generally lower cost.
The water source must be within 6 to 8 metres of the pump.
Best for flat terrain with accessible water bodies.

Submersible Solar Pumps:

Installed below the water level inside a borewell or deep well.
Suitable for borewells and deeper water sources.
Can lift water from 20 to 200 metres depth.
More expensive than surface pumps.
Better for areas with deep groundwater levels.
The most common type used in Indian farming today.

Quick Comparison Table
Brand	Capacity Range	Type	Approx Cost Before Subsidy	PM Kusum Approved	Magel Tyala Listed
Kirloskar Solar	2 HP to 10 HP	Surface and Submersible	Rs. 80,000 to Rs. 4,50,000	Yes	Yes
Shakti Pumps	1 HP to 10 HP	Submersible	Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 4,00,000	Yes	Yes
CRI Pumps	2 HP to 10 HP	Surface and Submersible	Rs. 75,000 to Rs. 4,20,000	Yes	Yes
Grundfos Solar	2 HP to 7.5 HP	Submersible	Rs. 90,000 to Rs. 4,80,000	Yes	Selective
Tata Power Solar Pump	2 HP to 10 HP	Submersible	Rs. 85,000 to Rs. 4,60,000	Yes	Yes
Jain Irrigation Solar Pump	2 HP to 10 HP	Surface and Submersible	Rs. 78,000 to Rs. 4,30,000	Yes	Yes
Luminous Solar Pump	1 HP to 5 HP	Surface and Submersible	Rs. 55,000 to Rs. 2,80,000	Yes	Selective
SunEdison Solar Pump	2 HP to 10 HP	Submersible	Rs. 80,000 to Rs. 4,40,000	Yes	Yes
KSB Solar Pump	2 HP to 10 HP	Submersible	Rs. 85,000 to Rs. 4,50,000	Yes	Selective
Lubi Solar Pump	1 HP to 10 HP	Surface and Submersible	Rs. 58,000 to Rs. 4,10,000	Yes	Yes

Costs shown are before PM Kusum or Magel Tyala subsidies. Farmer contribution after subsidy is typically 10 percent.

Top 10 Solar Pumps for Farming Reviewed

1. Kirloskar Solar Pump

Buy Now

Capacity: 2 HP to 10 HP Type: Surface and Submersible PM Kusum Approved: Yes Magel Tyala Listed: Yes Price Before Subsidy: Rs. 80,000 to Rs. 4,50,000

Kirloskar is one of India’s most trusted pump manufacturers. Over 100 years of engineering experience backs the brand. Solar pump quality reflects that long heritage. Both surface and submersible models are available. The motors are highly efficient in Indian conditions. Corrosion resistance is strong for agricultural environments. Service centres are present across most Indian states. Spare parts availability is excellent nationwide—a safe and reliable first choice for most farmers.

Key Features:

High-efficiency brushless DC motor
Stainless steel pump body for corrosion resistance
MPPT controller for maximum solar energy utilisation
Remote monitoring option on premium models
Wide service network across India

Pros: Trusted brand, excellent durability, wide service support, and both pump types available. Cons: Slightly higher price than budget alternatives. Best for: Farmers wanting maximum reliability and long-term support.

2. Shakti Pumps Solar

Buy Now

Capacity: 1 HP to 10 HP Type: Submersible PM Kusum Approved: Yes Magel Tyala Listed: Yes Price Before Subsidy: Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 4,00,000

Shakti Pumps is one of India’s largest suppliers of solar pumps. Very strong presence in PM Kusum installations across states. Stainless steel construction throughout the pump body. MPPT solar charge controller included as standard. Performance in deep borewell applications is reliable. The 3 HP and 5 HP models are particularly popular—good value at every capacity level: a wide dealer and installer network across rural India.

Key Features:

100 percent stainless steel construction
MPPT solar charge controller
Available for borewells up to 200 metres deep
Suitable for saline and hard water conditions
Strong track record in PM Kusum deployments

Pros: Excellent PM Kusum track record, stainless steel build, wide range of capacities. Cons: Primarily submersible focus; fewer surface pump options. Best for: Borewell irrigation in deep water-table areas.

3. CRI Pumps Solar

Buy Now

Capacity: 2 HP to 10 HP Type: Surface and Submersible PM Kusum Approved: Yes Magel Tyala Listed: Yes Price Before Subsidy: Rs. 75,000 to Rs. 4,20,000

CRI is a well-established Indian pump manufacturer. The solar pump range includes surface and submersible options. Performance in saline and hard water is notably good. Energy efficiency ratings are competitive across the range. The control system is user-friendly for farmers. The service network is strong in South and West India. Installation support is included in most packages—a reliable mid-range option with broad applicability.

Key Features:

High-efficiency solar pump motor
Suitable for hard and mildly saline water
Both surface and submersible configurations
Simple control panel for easy operation
Good performance across borewell depths

Pros: Good hard-water performance with both pump types; reliable brand. Cons: The service network is thinner in Northeast India. Best for: South and West Indian farmers with hard-water conditions.

4. Grundfos Solar Pump

Buy Now

Capacity: 2 HP to 7.5 HP Type: Submersible PM Kusum Approved: Yes Magel Tyala Listed: Selective models Price Before Subsidy: Rs. 90,000 to Rs. 4,80,000

Grundfos is a premium Danish pump manufacturer. Solar pump technology is among the best in the world. Energy efficiency is notably superior to that of Indian brands. The SQFlex range is specifically designed for solar applications. Long service life is the defining characteristic—premium materials throughout construction. Higher price reflects a genuine quality difference. Worth considering for farmers who want maximum longevity.

Key Features:

Premium SQFlex solar pump technology
Extremely high energy efficiency ratings
Superior build materials for long service life
Handles varying solar input conditions well
Global brand with India-specific support

Pros: Best-in-class efficiency, longest lifespan, excellent build quality. Cons: Most expensive option on this list; some models not on Magel Tyala’s list. Best for: Farmers prioritising efficiency and longevity over upfront cost.

5. Tata Power Solar Pump

Buy Now

Capacity: 2 HP to 10 HP Type: Submersible PM Kusum Approved: Yes Magel Tyala Listed: Yes Price Before Subsidy: Rs. 85,000 to Rs. 4,60,000

Tata Power Solar is a well-established brand in the Indian solar market. The agricultural pump range meets the Tata quality standard. Both the solar panels and the pump system are well integrated. MPPT controllers ensure maximum solar utilisation. The monitoring system allows remote performance tracking. Service support is reliable and nationwide. Warranty terms are among the best available, making it a premium yet trustworthy choice for serious farmers.

Key Features:

Integrated solar panel and pump system
Advanced MPPT controller
Remote monitoring and control capability
Strong nationwide warranty and support
High-efficiency submersible motor

Pros: Strong brand trust, integrated system, remote monitoring, and good warranty. Cons: Higher price point, primarily a submersible focus. Best for: Farmers who value brand trust and want an integrated system support.

6. Jain Irrigation Solar Pump

Buy Now

Capacity: 2 HP to 10 HP Type: Surface and Submersible PM Kusum Approved: Yes Magel Tyala Listed: Yes Price Before Subsidy: Rs. 78,000 to Rs. 4,30,000

Jain Irrigation is deeply embedded in Indian agricultural infrastructure. Solar pumps are a natural extension of their farming focus. Both surface and submersible models cover a wide range. Integration with drip and sprinkler irrigation systems is a strength, particularly in Maharashtra and Gujarat. The combination of pump and irrigation expertise is unique. After-sales support in agricultural areas is reliable—a practical choice for serious farming operations.

Key Features:

Both surface and submersible configurations
Integration capability with drip irrigation systems
Strong agricultural region service network
Good performance across crop water requirements
Reliable presence in Magel Tyala deployments

Pros: Agricultural expertise, drip system integration, strong presence in Maharashtra. Cons: Less prominent in North Indian markets. Best for: Maharashtra and Gujarat farmers seeking integrated irrigation solutions.

7. Luminous Solar Pump

Buy Now

Capacity: 1 HP to 5 HP Type: Surface and Submersible PM Kusum Approved: Yes Magel Tyala Listed: Selective models Price Before Subsidy: Rs. 55,000 to Rs. 2,80,000

Luminous is known for home solar and inverter products. The agricultural pump range is a newer but growing offering. Most affordable option on this list at entry levels. Suitable for small farmers with limited irrigation needs. The 1 HP and 2 HP models are competitively priced. Performance is reliable in shallow water-table areas. The service network is strong in urban and semi-urban areas. A practical entry point for first-time solar pump buyers.

Key Features:

Affordable pricing across small capacities
Both surface and submersible options
Suitable for shallow water sources
Simple installation and operation
Trusted brand for general support

Pros: Most affordable entry-level pricing, both pump types, trusted brand. Cons: Limited to higher capacities, not all models on the Magel Tyala list. Best for: Small farmers with shallow water tables wanting affordable solar pumping.

8. SunEdison Solar Pump

Buy Now

Capacity: 2 HP to 10 HP Type: Submersible PM Kusum Approved: Yes Magel Tyala Listed: Yes Price Before Subsidy: Rs. 80,000 to Rs. 4,40,000

SunEdison has a strong presence in PM Kusum deplonts across India. Submersible pump performance in deep borewells is reliable. Stainless steel motor and pump body construction. MPPT technology maximises the use of solar panel energy. The monitoring system provides operational data remotely. Installation and commissioning support is professional. A solid mid-range choice for PM Kusum beneficiaries. Good performance record across multiple Indian states.

Key Features:

Deep borewell submersible capability
Stainless steel motor housing
MPPT solar controller included
Remote monitoring system
Strong PM Kusum deployment history

Pros: Good PM Kusum track record, deep borewell capability, remote monitoring. Cons: Primarily submersible focus. Best for: Farmers in PM Kusum scheme areas with deep borewells.

9. KSB Solar Pump

Buy Now

Capacity: 2 HP to 10 HP Type: Submersible PM Kusum Approved: Yes Magel Tyala Listed: Selective models Price Before Subsidy: Rs. 85,000 to Rs. 4,50,000

KSB is a German engineering brand with manufacturing in India. Build quality reflects international engineering standards. Submersible pump efficiency is among the best available. Suitable for demanding deep borewell applications. Long service life is the standout characteristic. Spare parts quality and availability are reliable—a premium choice for farmers wanting European engineering. Price is justified by performance and longevity.

Key Features:

German engineering quality standards
High-efficiency submersible motor
Suitable for very deep borewell applications
Long service life with quality components
Professional installation and commissioning

Pros: International engineering quality, excellent efficiency, long lifespan. Cons: Higher price, not all models on Magel Tyala’s list. Best for: Farmers with deep borewells wanting premium engineering quality.

10. Lubi Solar Pump

Buy Now

Capacity: 1 HP to 10 HP Type: Surface and Submersible PM Kusum Approved: Yes Magel Tyala Listed: Yes Price Before Subsidy: Rs. 58,000 to Rs. 4,10,000

Lubi is a Gujarat-based manufacturer with strong agricultural roots. Solar pump range covers the widest capacity span on this list. Both surface and submersible options are available. Pricing is competitive across all capacity levels. Performance in saline and hard water is a noted strength. Strong dealer network across Gujarat and Maharashtra. Service support in agricultural regions is reliable. Good value for farmers across farm sizes.

Key Features:

Widest capacity range from 1 HP to 10 HP
Both surface and submersible configurations
Suitable for saline and hard water conditions
Competitive pricing across all capacities
Strong Gujarat and Maharashtra dealer network

Pros: Widest capacity range, both pump types, competitive pricing, saline water capability. Cons: Less prominent in South and North Indian markets. Best for: Gujarat and Maharashtra farmers wanting value across all farm sizes.

Choosing the Right HP Capacity
Farm Size	Water Requirement	Recommended Pump
Up to 2 acres	Low to moderate	1 HP to 2 HP
2 to 5 acres	Moderate	3 HP to 5 HP
5 to 10 acres	Moderate to high	5 HP to 7.5 HP
Above 10 acres	High	7.5 HP to 10 HP

Borewell depth also matters significantly. Deeper borewells need higher head pumps regardless of farm size. Consult the installation vendor for a site-specific recommendation.

Top Picks by Category

Best Overall: Kirloskar Solar Pump Trusted brand, both pump types, strong service, reliable across all conditions.

Best for PM Kusum: Shakti Pumps or SunEdison. Both have strong records of PM Kusum deployment across multiple states.

Best for Magel Tyala (Maharashtra): Jain Irrigation or Lubi. Strong Maharashtra presence and listed on Magel Tyala-approved vendor lists.

Best Premium: Grundfos or KSB International engineering quality for farmers wanting maximum efficiency and longevity.

Best Budget: Luminous or Lubi. Most accessible entry-level pricing with functional performance.

Best for Deep Borewells: Shakti Pumps or KSB.KSB. Both handle deep water-table applications reliably.

Best for Hard Water: CRI Pumps or Lubi. Specifically designed to handle saline and hard water conditions.

How to Apply for the PM Kusum Solar Pump Subsidy

Here is how the application process typically works:

Check eligibility. Any farmer with agricultural land and a valid water source is generally eligible. Small and marginal farmers get priority.
Visit the state nodal agency website. Each state has a designated agency managing PM Kusum applications. For Maharashtra, this is MEDA.
Register online. Most states have online portals for PM Kusum applications.
Submit required documents. Land records, identity proof, water source verification, and bank account details are typically required.
Wait for approval. States process applications in batches based on available funds.
Select an approved vendor. Only MNRE-approved vendors qualify for subsidy. All brands on this list are approved.
Pay the farmer’s contribution. This is typically 10 percent of the total installation cost.
Installation and commissioning. The approved vendor handles installation. The subsidy is settled directly between the vendor and the government.

How to Apply for Magel Tyala (Maharashtra)

Magel Tyala applications are specific to Maharashtra and follow a similar process:

Check eligibility. Farmers without an electricity connection to their farmland primarily qualify.
Visit the MEDA portal or the nearest MEDA office.
Submit the application with land records and a no-electricity-connection certificate.
Wait for allotment. MEDA allocates pumps based on priority categories.
Installation by an empanelled vendor. Approved vendors handle installation at the subsidised rate.

FAQs About Solar Pumps for Farming

How many hours does a solar pump run per day?

A solar pump runs during daylight hours when sunlight is adequate. This is typically 6 to 8 hours per day in good conditions. No running at night unless a battery storage system is added.

Can a solar pump work on cloudy days?

Yes, but at reduced output. Modern MPPT controllers optimise performance in lower light. Cloudy day output is typically 30 to 50 percent of full capacity.

Is battery storage recommended for solar pumps?

Most agricultural solar pumps run without batteries. Irrigation is typically done during daylight hours. Battery storage is expensive and is usually not recommended for standard farm use.

How long does a solar pump last?

Solar panels typically last 25 years. Pump motors last 8 to 15 years, depending on brand and maintenance. Pumps should be serviced annually for best longevity.

What is the actual cost to a farmer under PM Kusum?

With a 90 percent subsidy, a 3 HP solar pump costing Rs. 1,50,000 would cost the farmer approximately Rs. 15,000. Actual amounts vary by state and current scheme terms.

Does a solar pump completely replace a diesel pump?

For daytime irrigation needs, yes. Farmers who irrigate at night may need a diesel or grid backup for those periods.

Final Thoughts

Solar pumps are one of the most financially transformative technologies available to Indian farmers right now.

The combination of zero fuel cost, reliable operation, and government subsidies covering 90 percent of the installation cost under PM Kusum makes this one of the most accessible and impactful investments any farmer can make.

Kirloskar, Shakti, and Jain Irrigation are the safest overall choices for most Indian farmers. Tata Power Solar and Grundfos are worth considering for those who want premium quality. Luminous and Lubi offer the most accessible entry points for smaller farms or tighter budgets.

For Maharashtra farmers specifically, Jain Irrigation and Lubi have the strongest local presence and Magel Tyala approval standing.

The diesel pump costs money every time it runs. A solar pump costs nothing after installation. For most Indian farmers, that difference changes everything.