National Desk, 29th November: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, heading the Union Cabinet, has given the green light to a Central Sector Scheme allocating Rs. 1261 Crore for the period spanning 2024-25 to 2025-26. This initiative focuses on supplying drones to 15,000 designated Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) between 2023-24 and 2025-2026, facilitating rental services to farmers for agricultural purposes.
In alignment with Prime Minister Modi’s vision, the scheme aims to empower women SHGs and introduce new technologies through drone services in the agriculture sector. Key highlights of the scheme include comprehensive interventions by converging the efforts of the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Department of Rural Development, Department of Fertilizers, Women SHGs, and Lead Fertilizer Companies.
Clusters where drone usage is economically viable will be identified, and 15,000 women SHGs in various states within these clusters will be selected for drone provision. Central Financial Assistance of 80% of the drone cost, up to a maximum of Rs. Eight Lakh, will be granted to these SHGs for procurement. The Cluster Level Federation of SHGs may secure the balance amount as a loan under the National Agriculture Infra Financing Facility, with a 3% interest subvention on the AIF loan.
Members of SHGs, aged 18 and above, will undergo a 15-day training program, including 5 days of mandatory drone pilot training and an additional 10 days for agriculture-related purposes. Another member or a family member inclined towards electrical goods repairs will be trained as a drone technician/assistant. Repair and maintenance coordination with drone companies will be facilitated by Lead Fertilizer Companies.
Additionally, Lead Fertilizer Companies will promote the use of Nano Fertilizers like Nano Urea and Nano DAP through drones operated by SHGs, providing rental services to farmers for Nano fertilizer and pesticide applications.
The envisioned impact of these initiatives is the provision of sustainable business and livelihood support to 15,000 SHGs, enabling them to earn an additional income of at least Rs. one lakh per annum. The scheme is poised to infuse advanced technology into agriculture, fostering improved efficiency, enhanced crop yield, and reduced operational costs for the benefit of farmers.
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