Empowering Rural Women: The Namo Drone Didi Scheme

The Government of India, through the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, has launched the Namo Drone Didi Scheme to transform agriculture and empower rural Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs). With a budget of ₹1261 crore, the scheme aims to provide 14,500 Women SHGs with drones, which they can use to offer rental services to farmers for agricultural purposes. This initiative, running from 2024-2025 to 2025-2026, not only promotes women’s economic independence but also enhances farming efficiency in rural areas.

What is the Namo Drone Didi Scheme?

The Namo Drone Didi Scheme is a government initiative under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM). It provides drones to Women SHGs, enabling them to offer affordable, essential agricultural services like spraying fertilizers and pesticides. This makes farming more efficient and accessible for rural communities.

Key Objectives

The scheme aims to:

• Empower Rural Women: Women in SHGs gain skills and income opportunities.
• Modernize Agriculture: Drones help improve farming productivity.
• Support Farmers: SHGs offer rental services, making advanced technology affordable for farmers.

Financial Support for SHGs

The Namo Drone Didi Scheme offers 80% financial support for SHGs to buy drones, capped at ₹8 lakhs. Here’s how it works:

• Central Financial Assistance (CFA): Covers 80% of the drone cost.
• Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) Loans: SHGs can get low-interest loans for the remaining amount, with a 3% interest subvention.
• Additional Funding: SHGs can also seek funds through other government schemes, making the drone purchase affordable and manageable.

What’s Included in the Drone Package?

Each SHG receives a complete package with everything needed for agricultural drone services:

• Drone with Spray Assembly: For efficient, large-area spraying of fertilizers and pesticides.
• Battery Sets and Chargers: Ensures continuous operation, covering up to 20 acres per day.
• Support Equipment: Includes a carrying box, camera, pH meter, and a one-year onsite warranty.
• Training Program: SHG members get 15 days of hands-on training in drone operation, agricultural applications, and maintenance.

Job Creation and Skill Development

The scheme supports job creation through skill development:

• Drone Pilot Training: One SHG member learns to operate the drone for agricultural use.
• Drone Assistant Training: A second member is trained to maintain and repair the drone, ensuring it’s always ready for use.

How the Scheme is Managed and Monitored

Role of Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs)

Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs) play a key role in implementation:

• Drone Procurement: LFCs ensure drones are purchased and delivered fairly.
• Coordination with Stakeholders: LFCs work with State Departments and drone manufacturers to streamline operations.
• Farmer Outreach: LFCs help SHGs reach farmers, aiming to cover 2000-2500 acres per SHG per year.

IT-Based Drone Portal

An IT-based Management Information System (MIS), known as the Drone Portal, tracks:

• Drone Usage: Monitors each drone’s operation and efficiency.
• Fund Disbursement: Tracks financial flow for accountability.
• Progress: Provides data on the scheme’s success, helping improve it over time.

Expected Benefits of the Scheme

The Namo Drone Didi Scheme brings many benefits for farmers and SHGs:

• Increased Crop Yields: Precise fertilizer and pesticide application improves crop health.
• Lower Costs for Farmers: Affordable drone services reduce expenses.
• Empowerment for Women: SHGs create new income and skill-building opportunities for rural women.
• Advancement in Rural Technology: Promotes tech adoption in agriculture, creating a foundation for future growth.

A Vision for Sustainable Agriculture

The Namo Drone Didi Scheme marks a major step toward a sustainable, tech-enabled future for Indian agriculture. By empowering rural Women SHGs with drone technology, the government is working to boost productivity, reduce costs, and provide women with skills and income opportunities. This initiative aligns with India’s goal to modernize agriculture and empower rural communities, making farming more efficient, accessible, and sustainable. By integrating technology with traditional farming, the scheme lays a foundation for a more prosperous, self-reliant rural economy.