Namo Drone Didi Scheme: Drones for Women Self-Help Groups
Last updated: 2026-11-13 · MockMentor
Namo Drone Didi gives drones to 15,000 women Self-Help Groups (SHGs), which rent them out to farmers for spraying liquid fertilisers and pesticides. The Cabinet approved it on 29 November 2023 as a Central Sector Scheme for 2023-24 to 2025-26. Each SHG is expected to earn at least ₹1 lakh a year more.
In one line: farm drones for women's groups, turning a new technology into rural income for women and cheaper, more precise spraying for farmers.
At a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Approved | 29 November 2023 |
| Period | 2023-24 to 2025-26 |
| Type | Central Sector Scheme |
| Target | 15,000 women SHGs |
| Subsidy | 80% of drone and accessories cost, up to ₹8 lakh |
| Balance 20% | Loan under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund, taken by Cluster Level Federations, with 3% interest subvention |
| Expected extra income | At least ₹1 lakh a year per SHG |
How it works
- Clusters are chosen under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), where farmers want drone services and the use is economically viable.
- One SHG member gets 15 days of training: 5 days as a drone pilot and 10 days on farm uses. Another member trains as a drone assistant for repairs.
- The package includes spray kit, batteries, charger, one-year warranty, two years' maintenance and insurance.
- Each SHG is expected to cover 2,000 to 2,500 acres a year.
- A Drone Portal tracks services and payments.
Facts to remember
- The 20% loan is through the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund.
- Drones are also used to spread nano fertilisers.
Possible exam questions
- How can technology-based livelihoods change the economic role of rural women? Discuss with reference to Namo Drone Didi.
- What are the risks of drone-based spraying, and how should they be managed?
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More in Agriculture schemes
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- Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses
- PM-KISAN
- PM Kisan Maan-Dhan
- PM Fasal Bima Yojana
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