May 24, 2024
Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this initiative aims to empower women in rural India by training them to fly and repair drones, providing new livelihood options and promoting social change.
The program seeks to advance agricultural technology, empower Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) as drone service providers, create business opportunities, increase rural employment, and optimize the use of fertilizers and pesticides.
Over three years (2023-2026), 15,000 drones will be distributed to selected women SHGs, with 500 drones provided by Lead Fertilizer Companies in 2023-24 and the remaining 14,500 under the scheme.
The Central Government will cover 80% of the drone costs, with the balance to be raised by SHGs through loans under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), along with a 3% interest subvention on these loans.
The scheme involves the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Department of Fertilizers, focusing on selecting appropriate clusters and SHGs. One member from each SHG will undergo a 15-day training program, including drone pilot training and agricultural applications, provided by Remote Pilot Training Organizations approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).