The Union Government has approved a plan to equip 15,000 forward-thinking women’s self-help groups (SHGs) with drones available for rent to farmers engaged in agricultural activities. These drones are intended for the application of Nano fertilizers and pesticides.
The decision was reached during a meeting of the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as announced by Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur on November 29.
Recalling the Independence Day speech by Mr. Modi, where he introduced a scheme to empower women’s self-help groups with drone technology, it was revealed that the scheme would have a financial allocation of ₹1,261 crore over a two-year period starting from 2024-25.
Identifying self-help groups from the total of 89 lakh SHGs established under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana, Mr. Thakur explained that clusters where drone usage is economically viable would be identified. Following this, SHGs would be selected to receive drones.
The women’s groups would receive 80% central financial assistance for the drone’s cost, which amounts to about ₹10 lakh, with the Centre providing up to ₹8 lakh. Fertilizer companies will contribute around 500 drones, and the remaining 14,500 drones will be provided through central assistance over the next two years.
In terms of remuneration, the drone pilot will receive ₹15,000, while the co-pilot will receive ₹10,000. A qualified member of the SHG, aged 18 and above, will undergo a 15-day training, including a mandatory five-day drone pilot training and an additional 10-day training for agriculture-related purposes. Another member will be selected for training as a technician or assistant.
This scheme aims to introduce advanced technology into agriculture, leading to improved efficiency, increased crop yield, and reduced operational costs for the benefit of farmers. The approved initiatives under the scheme are anticipated to offer sustainable business and livelihood support to 15,000 SHGs, enabling them to earn an additional income of at least ₹1 lakh per annum.
