Anert CEO Denies Allegations by Chennithala on PM-KUSUM Scheme

Quick Summary

• The PM-KUSUM scheme’s implementation in Kerala was audited in September 2023 by the Principal Accountant General (PAG),with no adverse findings reported,according to Narendra Nath Veluri,CEO of Anert.
• the PM-KUSUM scheme aims to provide farmers access to solar power for irrigation and reduce carbon emissions from agriculture.
• Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala alleged irregularities in how tenders were handled by Anert under the ₹240 crore project but was refuted by Mr. Veluri.
• Anert clarified that tenders pertained to vendor empanelment and price finding for solar pump systems,following standard protocols used nationwide under Centrally sponsored schemes.
• Unit prices for pumps ranged from ₹2.3 lakh to ₹1 crore depending on specifications.
• Mr. Veluri emphasized the PAG audit’s validation of procedural and financial compliance and indicated further scrutiny would be subject to decisions by competent authorities.
• Mr. Chennithala had called for intervention by Kerala’s Chief Minister, an Assembly committee probe, and a forensic audit.

Indian opinion Analysis

The PM-KUSUM scheme represents a significant effort toward integrating lasting energy solutions within India’s agricultural sector while promoting decentralised renewable energy accessibility among farmers. Allegations such as those raised regarding tendering processes can cast doubt on key government initiatives; however, audits like the one conducted by PAG serve as critical instruments of transparency and accountability.

anert’s assertion that procedural practices align with Ministry guidelines signals adherence to established frameworks governing Centrally sponsored initiatives like PM-KUSUM across States-a reassuring outcome amid political controversy. Still, calls for deeper inquiry into tender handling reveal public demand for robust oversight mechanisms even when constitutional audits affirm compliance.

This case underscores both the importance of renewable energy programmes in addressing India’s carbon footprint and the need for credible governance structures at State levels that avoid misuse or perception thereof during implementation phases.

Read More: Published – july 25, 2025