‘Namo Drone Didi’ Scheme Empowers Women Farmers with Cutting-Edge Tech, 15000 Drones to be Distributed by 2026
New Delhi, July 29: The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has announced significant progress in the implementation of the ‘Namo Drone Didi’ scheme, a flagship initiative aimed at empowering women self help groups (SHGs) through advanced agricultural technology. In a written reply to the Lok Sabha on Tuesday, Minister of State Ramnath Thakur shared key developments of the scheme that envisions the distribution of 15,000 drones to SHGs by 2025–26.
Launched as a Central Sector Scheme with an outlay of ₹1,261 crore, Namo Drone Didi is designed to promote drone-based agricultural practices to enhance crop yield, reduce input costs, and provide livelihood opportunities for rural women. The scheme offers Central Financial Assistance (CFA) of up to 80% of the drone package cost (capped at ₹8 lakh) for eligible SHGs.
As of FY 2023–24, a total of 1,094 drones have been distributed by Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs), including 500 drones under the Namo Drone Didi scheme. Members of these SHGs have been trained at DGCA-authorized Remote Pilot Training Organisations (RPTOs), ensuring that they are equipped with the skills to operate the drones efficiently.
A study conducted by the Agricultural Development and Rural Transformation Centre (ADRTC), Bangalore, confirmed the operational efficiency and viability of the initiative. It found that each kisan drone can spray one acre in 7–8 minutes, with battery life ranging from 5 to 20 minutes. Drone packages under the scheme include one standard battery set and four additional battery sets to support continuous usage.
However, transportation of drones emerged as a key challenge. Over 42% of SHGs reported transport-related issues, especially in southern India where the impact was highest at nearly 79%. Additionally, more than two-thirds of drone operators found vehicle rental costs unaffordable. To address this, the government has extended support under the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM), offering 80% financial assistance for the purchase of multi-utility transport machines.
The scheme has not only introduced SHGs to modern agricultural practices but has also diversified their income sources, enhanced productivity, and contributed to rural economic development.
The government has already allocated the remaining 14,500 drones across various states. Top beneficiaries include Uttar Pradesh (2,236 drones), Maharashtra (1,612), Madhya Pradesh (1,066), and Gujarat (1,024), as detailed in the release.
The Namo Drone Didi initiative represents a convergence of gender empowerment, technology adoption, and agricultural transformation, reinforcing the government’s push towards inclusive and sustainable development in the farm sector.
