Namo Drone Didi Scheme is an innovative initiative launched by the Government of India with the aim of empowering women-led self-help groups (SHGs) in rural areas. The scheme focuses on enhancing agricultural productivity using advanced drone technology and generating additional income for these SHGs. The scheme is specifically launched under Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).

In this article we are going to give you complete information about this scheme such as, what will be key features, impact on rural development and future Prospects of Namo Drone Didi Scheme. If you are interested to know all updates regarding this scheme, then you will have to read this article carefully till end, so without further delay, let’s get started!

What is Namo Drone Didi Scheme?

Namo Drone Didi Yojana, India’s first drone training program exclusively designed for empowering women. This initiative is a groundbreaking step toward skill development, opening up new career opportunities in technology and agriculture for women across the country.

Namo Drone Didi Scheme Overview

Objective of Namo Drone Didi Scheme

The main objective of the Namo Drone Didi Scheme is to economically empower rural women by integrating modern technology into traditional agricultural practices. Through this scheme, the government provides drones to SHGs and trains them on the use of drone technology in agriculture, so that they can improve agricultural productivity through precise application of fertilizers and pesticides.

Features of Namo Drone Didi Scheme

Namo Drone Didi Scheme has some features which make them more special, such as:

Financial Assistance

The government provides a subsidy of 80% on the cost of the drone, with a maximum limit of Rs 8 lakh. This financial assistance reduces the initial cost of acquiring advanced technology for SHGs.

The remaining 20% ​​of the cost can be financed through a loan from the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) at an affordable interest rate of 3%. This ensures that SHGs can access the required funds.

Training and Capacity Building

Selected SHG members are subjected to an intensive 15-day program of drone pilot training to enable them to operate drones efficiently.

The 10-day training program focuses on agricultural applications. This training focuses on the practical use of drones, such as spraying fertilizers and pesticides.

One member from each SHG is trained as a drone facilitator, who takes on the responsibility of maintaining and upkeep of the drone equipment.

Cluster-based implementation

The scheme identifies specific clusters where there is a high demand for drone services. This targeted approach ensures that drones are used effectively and the services provided are economically viable.

Clusters are selected based on the actual demand for drone services, ensuring that SHGs can generate sustainable income.

Role of Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs)

LFCs act as a bridge between SHGs and drone suppliers, helping in the procurement of drones.

LFCs also provide assistance in terms of repairs and maintenance, ensuring that drones remain operational and effective.

Complete Drone Package

The plan offers a complete drone package, which includes all the necessary accessories like spray assembly, carrying box, battery, fast charger, and essential tools like pH meter and anemometer.

The package includes a one-year warranty, two years of maintenance support, and insurance to cover any damage.

Impact of Namo Drone Didi Scheme on Rural Development

✅Economic Empowerment: The scheme aims to provide additional income of at least Rs 1 lakh annually to each SHG. This additional income contributes significantly to the economic independence and empowerment of rural women.

✅Modernization of Agriculture: The use of drone technology in agriculture leads to precise application of fertilizers and pesticides, which increases crop production and reduces wastage. This modernization of agricultural practices is important for increasing productivity and sustainability.

✅Skill Development: Training programs provide SHG members valuable skills in drone operation and maintenance. These skills not only improve their drone management ability but also enhance their employability in other sectors.

✅Community Development: The scheme promotes sustainable livelihoods and supports the overall development of rural communities. Increased agricultural productivity and additional income provide the community with better access to education, healthcare, and other essential services.

Namo Drone Didi Scheme Eligibility Criteria

1. The applicants should be a permanent member of SHG.
2. The annual income of the applicant’s family should be at least Rs 1 lakh.

Challenges and Solutions of Namo Drone Didi Scheme

✔️Training SHG members to handle the technical aspects of drone operations is a key challenge. The solution lies in comprehensive and continuous training programmes, ensuring that members are well-equipped to manage and operate drones.

✔️Ensuring regular maintenance and repair of drones in rural areas can be challenging. This problem can be addressed by leveraging support from LFCs to set up and maintain local service centres.

✔️Convincing farmers to adopt drone services can be challenging, as there is resistance to change and lack of awareness. Acceptance among farmers can be achieved by conducting awareness campaigns and demonstrating the benefits of drone technology.

Namo Drone Didi Scheme Required Documents

• Aadhar Card
• Electricity bill
• Address Proof
• Mobile Number
• PAN Card
• Ration card

Future Prospects for Namo Drone Didi Scheme

The Namo Drone Didi Scheme has the potential to revolutionise rural agriculture by integrating modern technology into traditional farming practices. If implemented successfully, the scheme can serve as a model for future development initiatives.

✅Expansion potential: The scheme can be expanded to cover more areas and SHGs, thereby increasing its impact. By constantly evaluating and resolving challenges, the scheme can be refined and expanded to achieve better results.

✅Technological advancements: As drone technology evolves, the scheme can incorporate new advancements to further enhance productivity and efficiency. Continuous innovation and adaptation will be crucial for the long-term success of the scheme.

✅Collaborative efforts: Collaboration between the government, private sector companies and SHGs will be crucial for the success of the scheme. Building strong partnerships and fostering a collaborative ecosystem will ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of the scheme.

Namo Drone Didi Scheme Apply Online

Step 1: Candidates who fulfill the eligibility requirements can visit the official Lakhpati Didi website to complete their online application for Namo Drone Didi Scheme 2024.

Step 2: Once on the homepage of the official website, the applicant should select the “Apply Here” option.

Step 3: A new page will appear on your screen, prompting the applicant to enter all necessary information and attach the required documents with the application form.

Step 4: After providing all the details, the applicant should review the information and click the “Submit” button to finalize the application process.

Wrapping Up

The Namo Drone Didi Scheme is a significant step towards empowering rural women and modernising agriculture in rural India. By providing drones to women-led SHGs, the scheme not only enhances agricultural productivity but also promotes economic empowerment and skill development.

The successful implementation of the scheme can be expected to have a transformational impact on rural livelihoods and can act as a model for future development initiatives. Through collaborative efforts and continuous innovation, the Namo Drone Didi Scheme can achieve its vision and create a prosperous and sustainable rural economy.

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