NEW DELHI. Under the ‘Namo Drone Didi’ scheme, 500 drones have been distributed to women Self Help Groups (SHGs) during 2023–24, as per the Department of Fertilizers. These “Drone Didis” have been trained at DGCA-authorised Remote Pilot Training Organisations, enabling them to provide drone-based services such as spraying fertilizers and pesticides for farmers.
The government has approved the scheme with an outlay of Rs. 1,261 crore for the period 2023–24 to 2025–26. Financial assistance of up to 80% of the drone cost, capped at Rs. 8 lakh, is provided to SHGs, while the remaining amount can be financed through loans under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund with interest support. Each drone package includes equipment, training, insurance, and maintenance support to ensure smooth operations.
A study by the Agricultural Development and Rural Transformation Centre, Bengaluru, found that the initiative has helped SHGs expand into modern agricultural practices. The use of drone technology has improved efficiency, productivity, and created new income opportunities for rural women.
