Government Launches Namo Drone Didi Scheme to Empower Women Self-Help Groups with Agricultural Drones

Government Launches Namo Drone Didi Scheme to Empower Women Self-Help Groups with Agricultural Drones

The Government of India has approved the Namo Drone Didi scheme aimed at empowering Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM). With an outlay of ₹1261 crores, the scheme is set to provide drones to 14,500 selected Women SHGs between 2024-25 and 2025-2026. The primary objective is to enable these groups to offer rental services to farmers for agricultural applications, including the use of liquid fertilizers and pesticides.

Objectives of the Scheme

  • Empower Women SHGs: To facilitate economic independence through drone rental services.
  • Enhance Agricultural Efficiency: By using drones for precise application of fertilizers and pesticides.
  • Sustainable Livelihoods: Providing an additional source of income for women.

Operational Guidelines

The Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare has released operational guidelines to ensure effective implementation of the scheme. Key components include:

Governance Structure

  • Central Level Oversight: An Empowered Committee of Secretaries from relevant departments will govern the scheme.
  • Implementation and Monitoring Committee: Headed by the Additional Secretary of the Department of Rural Development, this committee will oversee planning, implementation, and technical guidance.

Financial Assistance

  • Subsidy: Women SHGs will receive 80% central financial assistance for the cost of drones and accessories, capped at ₹8 lakhs.
  • Loan Facility: SHGs can secure loans for the balance amount through the National Agriculture Infra Financing Facility (AIF), with an interest subvention of 3%.

Drone Package Details

The drone package includes:

  • A basic drone equipped with a spray assembly for liquid fertilizers and pesticides.
  • Additional equipment such as battery sets, a downward-facing camera, and a pH meter.
  • Comprehensive training for drone pilots and assistants.
  • Insurance and maintenance contracts.

Training and Capacity Building

  • One member from each SHG will undergo 15 days of mandatory training as a drone pilot, while another will be trained as a drone assistant.
  • Training will focus on drone operation and agricultural applications.

Implementation Agencies

  • Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs) will act as implementing agencies at the state level, coordinating with various stakeholders to ensure efficient execution.
  • Drones will be procured through a transparent process, with ownership resting with the SHGs or their federations.

Monitoring and Evaluation

  • An IT-based Management Information System (MIS), referred to as the Drone Portal, will facilitate monitoring, fund disbursement, and track drone operations.

Expected Outcomes

The Namo Drone Didi scheme aims to:

  • Provide sustainable business opportunities for Women SHGs.
  • Enhance agricultural productivity through advanced technology.
  • Reduce operational costs for farmers.

Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):

  1. What is the total outlay approved for the Namo Drone Didi scheme?
    • A) ₹500 Crores
    • B) ₹1000 Crores
    • C) ₹1261 Crores
    • D) ₹1500 Crores
      Answer: C) ₹1261 Crores
  2. How many Women SHGs are targeted to benefit from the scheme?
    • A) 10,000
    • B) 14,500
    • C) 20,000
    • D) 25,000
      Answer: B) 14,500
  3. What percentage of Central Financial Assistance is provided for the purchase of drones?
    • A) 50%
    • B) 60%
    • C) 70%
    • D) 80%
      Answer: D) 80%
  4. Which committee will be responsible for monitoring the implementation of the Namo Drone Didi scheme?
    • A) State Committee
    • B) Empowered Committee of Secretaries
    • C) Implementation and Monitoring Committee
    • D) National Committee for Agriculture
      Answer: C) Implementation and Monitoring Committee
  5. What kind of training will members of the SHGs receive?
    • A) Basic Computer Training
    • B) Drone Pilot Training and Agricultural Application Training
    • C) First Aid Training
    • D) Financial Management Training
      Answer: B) Drone Pilot Training and Agricultural Application Training