In a transformative step towards integrating advanced technology into Indian agriculture and empowering women, the Namo Drone Didi Scheme has been launched under the Central Sector Scheme by the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare. This initiative is a game-changer, designed to provide drones to Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) for offering rental services to farmers.
Here’s everything you need to know about this innovative scheme!
Key Highlights of the Scheme
- Objective:
The scheme aims to distribute drones to 14,500 Women SHGs between 2024-2026, enabling them to provide rental services to farmers for spraying liquid fertilizers and pesticides. - Financial Assistance:
- Central Financial Assistance of 80% of the drone cost (up to ₹8.0 lakhs per drone).
- Remaining cost to be financed through loans under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) with an interest subvention of 3%.
- Drone Package Inclusions:
- Drones equipped with spray assemblies, cameras, batteries, and accessories.
- Comprehensive training for drone pilots and assistants.
- A 2-year Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) and comprehensive insurance.
- Operational Efficiency:
- Drones can cover up to 20 acres/day, ensuring efficiency in agricultural operations.
- Stakeholder Participation:
- Collaboration between SHGs, Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs), State Departments, and drone manufacturers.
- Monitoring and service delivery through an IT-based Drone Portal.
Benefits of the Scheme
For Women SHGs:
- Livelihood opportunities: Women SHGs can earn sustainable income by providing drone services.
- Skill enhancement: Members are trained as drone pilots and assistants, opening pathways for further opportunities.
For Farmers:
- Cost-effective agriculture: Reduced dependency on labor-intensive spraying.
- Improved crop yields: Precise application of fertilizers and pesticides enhances productivity.
- Sustainable farming practices: Efficient use of resources with minimal wastage.
For Agriculture:
- Technology infusion: Adoption of drones modernizes farming practices.
- Increased coverage: Drones allow faster, wider application across larger fields.
Implementation Framework
- Central Governance:
The scheme is overseen by an Empowered Committee of Secretaries across key ministries. - State-Level Monitoring:
State Agriculture Departments and DAY-NRLM Mission Directors ensure effective implementation on the ground. - Cluster-Based Model:
Priority is given to clusters with high agricultural demand, targeting coverage of 2000-2500 acres annually. - Digital Monitoring:
A Drone Portal will track drone usage, funds flow, and service delivery in real time.
A New Era for Women and Agriculture
The Namo Drone Didi Scheme represents a bold step towards empowering women in rural India while revolutionizing agricultural practices. By combining cutting-edge technology with grassroots participation, the scheme aims to uplift both the farming community and Women SHGs, fostering sustainability, efficiency, and economic growth.
This initiative not only supports agricultural modernization but also paves the way for greater inclusivity and opportunity for women in rural India. With women at the forefront, the future of Indian agriculture shines brighter than ever!
Stay tuned for more updates on sustainable farming and women-led innovations!
Namo Drone Didi Scheme
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Namo Drone Didi |
| Launch Year | 2024 |
| Outlay | ₹1261 Crores |
| Duration | 2024-25 to 2025-26 |
| Beneficiaries | 14,500 Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under DAY-NRLM |
| Purpose | Rental services for agriculture (e.g., spraying liquid fertilizers and pesticides) |
| Central Financial Assistance | 80% of cost (up to ₹8 lakhs) |
| Funding Gap | Balance amount via AIF loans with 3% interest subvention or other funding sources |
| Drone Package Includes | – Basic drone with spray assembly |
| – Downward-facing camera, battery sets, chargers, pH meter, anemometer | |
| – 1-year warranty, insurance, 2-year AMC | |
| – Spare parts: batteries, propellers, nozzles | |
| – 15-day training for drone pilot and assistant | |
| Coverage | 20 acres per day by a drone |
| Training | – Pilot training for 1 SHG member |
| – Assistant training for electrical/mechanical repairs | |
| Implementation | – Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs) at State level |
| – State Departments for area/SHG selection | |
| – IT-based Drone Portal for monitoring and service delivery | |
| Expected Outcomes | – Enhanced crop yield and efficiency |
| – Livelihood support and additional income for SHGs | |
| – Infusion of advanced technology into agriculture |
Flowchart Representation:
Government Approval → Funding (₹1261 Cr) → Women SHGs (14,500 Units) → Drone Acquisition (80% Subsidy) → Training → Deployment (20 Acres/Day) → Agriculture Services (Fertilizers/Pesticides) → Livelihood for SHGs + Efficiency for Farmers → Monitoring (Drone Portal)
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