The Namo Drone Didi Scheme is a revolutionary initiative launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi aimed at empowering women in rural India and modernizing agriculture. Through this scheme, the government will provide commercial agricultural drones to 15,000 Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) across the country.
What is the objective of the Drone Didi Scheme?
The primary goals of the project include:
- Creating livelihood opportunities for rural women through technology.
- Innovating the agriculture sector by introducing drone technology for spraying fertilizers (like Nano Urea) and pesticides.
- Making Self Help Groups (SHGs) economically independent.
Benefits of the Scheme
If an SHG is selected under this scheme, they are entitled to the following major benefits:
- 80% Subsidy: The Central Government will provide an 80% subsidy (up to ₹8 lakhs) on the purchase of the drone and its accessories.
- Loan Facility: The remaining 20% can be financed via the National Agriculture Infra Financing Facility at a nominal interest rate of 3%.
- Pilot Training: One woman from the SHG will receive a 15-day intensive drone pilot training program.
- Monthly Salary: The trained pilot will receive a stipend of ₹15,000 per month.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Namo Drone Didi Scheme, the following conditions must be met:
- The applicant must be a woman and an active member of a registered Self Help Group (SHG) under DAY-NRLM.
- The applicant should be between 18 to 37 years of age.
- She must possess basic knowledge of using smartphones and technology.
- The associated SHG must have a good financial track record.
How to Apply?
Currently, the selection is being facilitated through the State Rural Livelihood Missions (SRLM). Interested SHGs should contact their local Block Development Officer (BDO) or the Gram Panchayat's NRLM coordinator for the application forms.
Download Scheme Guidelines PDF