Namo Drone Didi Scheme: India’s agricultural landscape is rapidly changing, and women are at the forefront of this digital transformation, thanks to the Namo Drone Didi Scheme. This landmark initiative is redefining rural women’s roles in farming, integrating cutting-edge drone technology into everyday agricultural practices. Here’s an in-depth look at how the Namo Drone Didi Scheme is driving women empowerment, increasing agricultural efficiency, and providing new income opportunities, all while building the future of smart farming.
At Marut Drones, we are deeply aligned with the spirit and objectives of the Namo Drone Didi Scheme. Our mission to revolutionize farming with cutting-edge drone technology perfectly complements this government-led program, which seeks to equip 15,000 selected Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) with agricultural drones. Imagine the profound change: women, once primarily engaged in manual farm labor, now confidently piloting advanced drones, contributing to precision agriculture and becoming vital service providers in their communities. This is the promise of the Namo Drone Didi Scheme.
What is the Namo Drone Didi Scheme?
The Namo Drone Didi Scheme is a Central Sector initiative launched by the Government of India to empower women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) by equipping them with agricultural drones. With a robust budget allocation of ₹1,261 crores, this scheme aims to provide 15,000 women SHGs with drones between 2024 and 2026. These SHGs will offer drone-based services—primarily spraying liquid fertilizers, pesticides, and monitoring crops—to local farmers on a rental basis, turning SHGs into tech-powered agri-entrepreneurs.
Key Features of the Namo Drone Didi Scheme
The Namo Drone Didi Scheme is structured to ensure widespread participation and lasting impact among rural women. Key features include:
- Drone Allocation: Distribution of drones to 15,000 women SHGs across India.
- Subsidized Purchase: Up to 80% subsidy on drone costs, capped at ₹8 lakh, dramatically reducing barriers to entry.
- Affordable Financing: Scheme-backed loans at a low interest rate of 3% for the remainder of the drone cost.
- Training and Skill Development: Each SHG receives comprehensive training in drone operation, maintenance, and agricultural application, ensuring women are confident in both technical and business aspects.
- Entrepreneurial Opportunities: SHGs are expected to generate an additional income of at least ₹1 lakh per year, transforming rural women into agri-tech entrepreneurs.
How Does the Scheme Empower Women?
The Namo Drone Didi Scheme is more than a technology upgrade—it’s a catalyst for women’s socio-economic upliftment:
- Economic Independence: Women SHGs can now earn stable, additional income by providing drone rental and spraying services to farmers.
- Skill Advancement: The scheme builds technical skills, creating a new wave of drone pilots and agri-tech specialists among rural women.
- Community Leadership: SHGs become technology leaders in their communities, breaking traditional barriers and inspiring the next generation of rural women.
- Financial Inclusion: Access to subsidized credit and business support ensures that women are financially empowered and included in the formal economy.
Advancing Agriculture with Smart Drones
The Namo Drone Didi Scheme is pivotal for the next phase of Indian agriculture:
- Precision Farming: Drones ensure uniform application of fertilizers and pesticides, reducing wastage and increasing crop health and yield.
- Cost Efficiency: Drone services lower labor costs for farmers and minimize their exposure to chemicals, making farming safer and more profitable.
- Adoption of Nano-Fertilizers: The scheme actively encourages the use of nano-fertilizers and efficient chemical usage, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.
- Crop Monitoring: Drones provide real-time insights into crop health, helping farmers make smarter, data-driven decisions.
Eligibility and Implementation
Women SHGs registered under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) are eligible to participate in the scheme. Implementation is being facilitated by multiple agencies, including the Ministries of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Rural Development, Fertilizers, and supported by Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), agricultural universities, and custom hiring centers.
Selected SHGs:
- Must undergo drone pilot training (as mandated by DGCA).
- Receive support for technical, business, and safety aspects.
- Are guided throughout the process to ensure successful and sustained operation.
How to Apply for the Namo Drone Didi Scheme
Start Drone-Based Services—once trained and equipped, SHGs can begin offering spraying and monitoring services to farmers on a commercial basis.
Identify an Eligible SHG under DAY-NRLM.
Submit an Online Application through the official government portal or with support from KVKs.
Undergo Selection and Training—selected groups are enrolled in certified training for drone operation and maintenance.
Procure Drones at Subsidized Cost using the scheme’s generous financial support mechanism.
Why Marut Drones Supports the Namo Drone Didi Scheme
At Marut Drones, we recognize that precision agriculture is vital for India’s future. We fully support the Namo Drone Didi Scheme because it aligns with our commitment to democratize access to drone technology, especially for marginalized communities. Our solutions are designed to be user-friendly, robust, and perfect for the diverse needs of SHGs participating in this program.
The Namo Drone Didi Scheme is more than a government program—it is a movement to empower rural women, accelerate agricultural modernization, and ensure a sustainable, tech-driven future for India’s villages. By integrating drone technology at the grassroots, the scheme is building new livelihoods, fostering rural entrepreneurship, and inspiring women across the country to dream bigger and lead with innovation.
The Namo Drone Didi Scheme represents a powerful synergy of women’s empowerment, technological advancement, and agricultural modernization. It’s about breaking barriers, creating new livelihoods, and ensuring that women play a central and leading role in shaping India’s agricultural future. As 2025 unfolds, we anticipate witnessing even more remarkable success stories from the Namo Drone Didi Scheme, as these courageous women take flight, literally and figuratively, transforming their lives and the landscape of Indian agriculture.
For more information on how your Self-Help Group can become part of the Namo Drone Didi Scheme, and to explore world-class agri-drone solutions, connect with Marut Drones today.
Namo Drone Didi Scheme: Empowering Women and Enhancing Agriculture with Marut Drones
