The Government of India has launched the Namo Drone Didi scheme as a Central Sector initiative with an allocation of Rs 1.261 billion from 2023-24 to 2025-26, aiming to revolutionize agricultural practices and empower Women Self Help Groups across the country. Under this scheme, 15,000 drones will be provided to SHGs, with Central Financial Assistance covering up to 80 percent of the drone package cost, capped at Rs 800,000 per unit.
Drone packages include operational training comprising 15 days for a drone pilot and 5 days for an assistant, drawn from the SHG or their family. In the fiscal year 2023-24, Lead Fertilizer Companies distributed 1,094 drones to Drone Didis, of which 500 were issued under this scheme. Training for members was conducted at Remote Pilot Training Organizations authorized by DGCA.
The Agricultural Development and Rural Transformation Centre conducted a study assessing the economic viability of the drones distributed. Findings revealed that drones could cover one acre in under eight minutes, with battery life ranging between five to twenty minutes depending on the model. Each drone package includes a standard battery and four additional sets to maximize field time.
The study also highlighted logistical challenges: 42.68 percent of Drone Didis faced transport issues due to lack of utility vehicles, with the southern region reporting the highest impact at 78.82 percent. Nearly 69 percent noted that hiring vehicles was costly. To address this, the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization now offers 80 percent financial assistance for SHGs to purchase multi-utility machines suitable for drone transport.
Through the use of drones, SHGs—primarily engaged in agriculture and allied sectors—are transitioning into modern farming practices, thereby increasing efficiency and productivity. The scheme is also enabling diversification of activities and expanding livelihood opportunities for women in rural areas.
