Namo Drone Didi is a central sector scheme aiming to empower women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) by equipping them with drone technology to provide agricultural services.
Key points
- The scheme aims to provide drones to 15000 selected Women SHGs during the period from 2024-25 to 2025-2026 for providing rental services to farmers for agriculture purpose (application of liquid fertilizers and pesticides for the present).
- This initiative is expected to generate an additional income of at least Rs. 1 lakh per year for each SHG, contributing to economic empowerment and sustainable livelihood generation.
- Under the scheme Women SHGs receive substantial financial assistance, covering 80% of the drone and accessory costs, up to Rs. 8 lakhs.
- This support helps mitigate the high upfront expenses associated with drone technology. For the remaining 20% cost, SHGs can seek loans from the National Agriculture Infrastructure Financing Facility (AIF) with a 3% interest subvention.
- The scheme is a collaborative venture between the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Department of Rural Development, and Department of Fertilizers, along with Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs) and other supporting entities.
- One of the members of the women SHGs who is qualified will be selected for 15-day training comprising of 5-day mandatory drone pilot training and additional 10 days training for agriculture purpose for nutrient and pesticide application
