NAMO Drone Didi Scheme: Empowering Women in Agriculture through Technology

The NAMO Drone Didi scheme is an ambitious Central Sector scheme launched by the Government of India, aimed at promoting the use of drone technology in agriculture, especially among women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs). This scheme brings together several government bodies, such as the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare (DA&FW), Department of Rural Development (DoRD), and Department of Fertilizers (DoF), to empower women SHGs with the tools, skills, and financial support to transform modern agriculture.

What is the NAMO Drone Didi Scheme?

The NAMO Drone Didi scheme is a central government initiative that introduces drone technology to rural women-led SHGs under the DAY-NRLM (Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihood Mission). The scheme aims to provide 15,000 women-led SHGs with drones over two years (2024–2026). The purpose of these drones is to offer rental services to farmers, specifically for precise application of liquid fertilizers and pesticides. By engaging women SHGs in the provision of drone services, the scheme targets an additional income stream of at least Rs. 1 lakh per SHG annually, contributing to the financial independence of rural women and supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

Key Features of the NAMO Drone Didi Scheme

The NAMO Drone Didi Scheme offers a well-rounded support structure to help SHGs maximize the potential of drone technology in agriculture. Some of its core features include:

1. Financial Assistance

• Subsidy: Women SHGs under the DAY–NRLM program receive an 80% subsidy on the cost of drones, with a cap of Rs. 8 lakhs.

• Loan Facility: The remaining 20% of the drone cost can be financed through a loan from the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) at an affordable 3% interest rate.

2. Drone Training for Women SHGs

• Pilot Training: One SHG member undergoes a comprehensive 15-day training program that includes 5 days of drone pilot training and an additional 10 days of agricultural application training, covering the use of drones for pesticide and nutrient distribution.

• Maintenance Training: Another SHG member, or a family member with an interest in mechanical and electrical repair, is trained as a drone assistant, gaining skills in drone maintenance.

3. Cluster-Based Implementation

• The scheme identifies demand-driven clusters where drone services can be economically viable, and appropriate SHGs are selected based on these clusters. This ensures that drone services are efficiently utilized in regions where there is genuine demand from farmers.

4. Support from Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs)

• LFCs play a vital role in bridging the gap between SHGs and drone suppliers, helping SHGs with procurement, repair, and maintenance of drones. They also promote the use of nano fertilizers through drones, optimizing the drone technology’s application in agriculture.

5. Comprehensive Drone Package

• SHGs receive a fully equipped drone package, which includes essential accessories such as a spray assembly, carrying box, batteries, fast chargers, and other tools like a pH meter and anemometer. These are covered by a one-year warranty, two years of maintenance support, and insurance.

Benefits of the NAMO Drone Didi Scheme

The NAMO Drone Didi Scheme brings multiple advantages, both to agriculture and to the lives of rural women. Here are some of its key benefits:

1. Economic Empowerment of Women

   By training women in high-demand drone technology, the scheme fosters an additional income stream for SHGs. The expectation is that each SHG can earn at least Rs. 1 lakh per year, offering financial empowerment to women who, in turn, can reinvest in their communities and households.

2. Enhanced Agricultural Efficiency

   Drone technology allows for precise application of pesticides and fertilizers, transforming traditional farming practices. With advanced GPS and sensor capabilities, drones ensure even and targeted application, reducing the overuse of chemicals, minimizing environmental impact, and lowering costs for farmers. This efficiency is especially beneficial in large-scale farms, where manual application would otherwise be time-consuming and inconsistent.

3. Skill Development and Knowledge Expansion

   The scheme provides specialized training in drone operations and agricultural technology, equipping women with valuable skills in modern agricultural practices. This training covers various aspects, such as accurate fertilizer application, crop monitoring, soil analysis, and irrigation management. Enhanced knowledge in these areas makes women SHG members more competitive and capable in the agricultural sector.

4. Community Networking and Collaboration

   Women participating in the scheme gain access to a support network of fellow SHG members, creating a sense of community and collaboration. Through forums, workshops, and mentorship opportunities with industry experts, these women can exchange experiences, share solutions, and develop their collective knowledge and skills.

Operational Guidelines and Monitoring

The NAMO Drone Didi Scheme is supported by a robust governance structure that ensures effective implementation and continuous monitoring. An Empowered Committee, comprising representatives from key departments, oversees the scheme’s operations. Additionally, an Implementation and Monitoring Committee, led by the Additional Secretary of the Department of Rural Development, supervises the technical rollout and ensures adherence to the scheme’s goals.

A dedicated Drone Portal, an IT-based Management Information System (MIS), has been created to streamline service delivery, track drone operations, and monitor fund disbursements. This system enables real-time oversight of drone use, ensuring accountability and transparency in scheme execution.

Long-Term Impact of the NAMO Drone Didi Scheme

The NAMO Drone Didi Scheme aims to empower rural women by providing them access to advanced drone technology, which can significantly impact India’s agricultural landscape. This initiative aligns with the government's objectives of promoting women-led development and modernizing traditional sectors like agriculture. The scheme not only offers financial support to Self-Help Groups (SHGs) but also positions women as essential contributors to the adoption of precision agriculture, an important aspect of sustainable development.

With the promise of additional income and technical skill development, the NAMO Drone Didi Scheme sets the foundation for a generation of women entrepreneurs in rural India. This initiative fosters a culture of inclusivity and technological advancement, addressing critical issues in agriculture and rural development while empowering women economically and socially.

NAMO Drone Didi Scheme is a transformative initiative that enhances agricultural efficiency, creates sustainable income opportunities, and positions women at the forefront of India’s rural innovation. As SHGs take on new roles in the agricultural sector, this scheme paves the way for improved agricultural practices and a more empowered rural society. Through this initiative, the government is not only advancing agricultural practices but also ensuring that women play an integral role in shaping the future of India’s agricultural economy.