Is the agricultural drone given completely free of cost?

No, but it is heavily subsidized. The government provides a direct subsidy of 80% of the drone's cost (up to ₹8 Lakhs). For the remaining 20%, the SHG can secure a loan under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) at a highly subsidized interest rate of 3%.

Who owns the drone, the woman or the SHG?

The drone is officially owned by the Women's Self Help Group (SHG). However, the trained 'Drone Didi' operates it and the group shares the revenue generated from renting it out to farmers.

Do I need a special license to fly these drones?

Yes, agricultural drones are heavy. The government provides a mandatory 15-day training course. Upon successful completion, you will be issued a valid Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) by the DGCA.

What if the drone gets damaged or crashes?

The scheme usually includes a provision for insurance. Furthermore, the 15-day training includes comprehensive modules on drone repair, maintenance, and safe flying protocols to minimize accidents.

Can an individual woman apply for this scheme?

No. This scheme is strictly designed for Women Self Help Groups (SHGs). An individual woman cannot apply unless she forms or joins a registered SHG in her village.

Namo Drone Didi Scheme - Eligibility, Benefits & Kaise Apply Kare | JanSevaHelp

Overview (Iske Baare Mein)

🚁 NAMO DRONE DIDI SCHEME This is a revolutionary Central Sector Initiative aimed at transforming the agricultural landscape while simultaneously empowering rural women. 🌾 WHY WAS IT LAUNCHED? Agriculture in India is rapidly modernizing. To increase crop yield and reduce manual labor, the government is introducing agricultural drones for pesticide and liquid fertilizer (Nano Urea/DAP) spraying. By placing these high-tech drones exclusively in the hands of Women Self Help Groups (SHGs), the scheme breaks gender barriers and creates micro-entrepreneurs in villages. 💼 INCOME & FINANCIAL SUPPORT: 💸 Drone Subsidy: The government provides a massive 80% subsidy (up to ₹8 Lakhs) to the SHG for purchasing the drone. 👩‍✈️ Pilot Training: One woman from the SHG is selected as the 'Drone Pilot' and receives 15 days of mandatory training along with a stipend. 🛠️ Assistant Role: Another woman is trained as a co-pilot/assistant for maintenance. 📈 Expected Income: By renting out the drone services to local farmers, the 'Drone Didi' can easily earn an estimated stable income of ₹15,000 per month. 🌟 A GAME CHANGER: This scheme is expected to cover over 15,000 SHGs nationwide, turning rural women into the technological backbone of modern Indian agriculture!

Who is Eligible? (Kaun Apply Kar Sakta Hai?)

Must be a woman aged between 18 and 37 years.
Must be an active member of a registered Women Self Help Group (SHG) under DAY-NRLM.
Must have passed at least 10th standard.
Basic knowledge of using smartphones and mobile applications is required.

Documents Required (Zaroori Dastavez)

Aadhaar Card
SHG Membership Certificate / Proof of association
10th Class Marksheet / Passing Certificate
Bank Account Passbook (Aadhaar Seeded)
Passport Size Photographs

How to Apply (Form Kaise Bhare)

1Approach the local nodal officer of your State Rural Livelihood Mission (SRLM) or block office.
2Your SHG must submit an application expressing interest. Selection is based on the agricultural potential of your cluster.
3Once the SHG is selected, the group nominates one member to be the primary 'Drone Pilot' and another as the 'Assistant'.
4The nominated pilot will attend a mandatory 15-day comprehensive drone pilot training funded by the government.
5Receive the drone and start offering spray services to local farmers on a rental basis!

Namo Drone Didi Scheme