The ‘Namo Drone Didi’ scheme will provide new opportunities and empowerment to rural women

**Executive Summary** The ‘Namo Drone Didi’ is a Central Sector Scheme with an outlay of Rs. 1261 Crores approved for the period 2023-24 to 2025-26. The scheme empowers rural Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) by providing them with drones to offer rental services to farmers for the application of fertilizers and pesticides. To date, 500 drones have been distributed across various states, supported by financial assistance and comprehensive technical training. **Key Points / Main Content** **Financial Assistance and Funding** * The government provides Central Financial Assistance covering 80% of the cost of the drone and accessories, up to a maximum of Rs. 8.0 lakhs. * Cluster Level Federations (CLFs) can secure the remaining balance as a loan through the National Agriculture Infra Financing Facility (AIF) with a 3% interest subvention. **Technical Package and Maintenance** * Drones are supplied as a complete package including a spray assembly, four spare battery sets, spare propellers, nozzle sets, and a dual-channel fast charger. * The package includes one-year comprehensive insurance and a two-year annual maintenance contract (AMC). **Training and Certification** * A mandatory 15-day training programme is provided for drone pilots and assistants. * The training covers the requirements for securing a drone pilot license, flight preparation, minor repairs, and hands-on practice for spraying fertilizers. * Training is conducted at Remote Pilot Organisations (RPTOs) authorized by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). **Implementation and Economic Impact** * Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs) distributed 500 drones to SHGs during the 2023-24 period. * A study by the Agricultural Development and Rural Transformation Centre (ADRTC) indicates that the scheme has modernized SHG activities, enhanced agricultural productivity, and increased income opportunities for rural women. * The highest distribution of drones has occurred in Andhra Pradesh (96), Karnataka (82), and Telangana (72). **Impact Analysis** **Women Self Help Groups (SHGs)** **Impact** SHGs are empowered to diversify their activities beyond traditional agriculture into modern technology-driven services, leading to increased efficiency and income. **Action Required** Selected members must undergo 15 days of mandatory training to secure pilot licenses and manage the operation and maintenance of the drones. **Farmers** **Impact** Farmers gain access to affordable rental services for the precise application of liquid fertilizers and pesticides via drone technology. **Action Required** Engage with local SHGs to utilize drone rental services for agricultural purposes. **Cluster Level Federations (CLFs)** **Impact** CLFs act as the financial intermediaries responsible for covering the procurement costs exceeding the 80% government subsidy. **Action Required** Raise the balance amount for drone procurement as loans under the National Agriculture Infra Financing Facility (AIF). **Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs)** **Impact** These companies are responsible for the physical distribution of the drone packages to the targeted groups. **Action Required** Facilitate the distribution of drones to selected SHGs and ensure they are equipped with the necessary accessories.

Key Entities Referenced