The Union Cabinet has approved a Central Sector Scheme for providing drones to Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) with an outlay of Rs. 1,261 Crore for the period from 2024-25 to 2025-26.
The scheme aims to provide drones to 15,000 selected Women SHGs during the period 2023-24 to 2025-2026 for providing rental services to farmers for agriculture purposes.
The main highlights of the scheme are:
The scheme aligns with the vision of Hon'ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, and seeks to empower women SHGs and bring new technologies through the convergence of resources and efforts from the Department of Rural Development (DoRD), Department of Fertilizers (DoF), Women SHGs, and Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs).
Central Financial Assistance at 80% of the cost of the drone and accessories/ancillary charges up to a total of 8 lakh will be provided to the women SHGs for the purchase of drones.
Appropriate clusters where the usage of drones is economically feasible will be identified.
LFCs will act as a bridge between drone supplier companies and SHGs, promoting the use of Nano Fertilizers such as Nano Urea and Nano DAP by the drones with SHGs renting out the drone services to farmers for Nano fertilizer and pesticide applications.
The scheme aims to support government initiatives for drone development, create employment opportunities for rural women, and incorporate safety and efficiency in farming.
Women can participate in the operational and maintenance jobs of drones, and the scheme can help India become the hub of dynamic start-ups in drone aeronautics.
The Cluster Level Federation (CLFs) of SHGs may raise the balance amount (total cost of procurement) and interest subvention at 3% on the AIF loan will be provided.
One of the members of the women SHGs who is well qualified, 18 years and above, will be elected by the Self-Reliant Leadership Module (SRLM) and LFCs for a 15-day training comprising 5 days of theoretical learning and 10 days of practical training.
It will help to infuse advanced technology in agriculture for improved efficiency, enhanced crop yield, and reduced cost of operation for the benefit of farmers.
It will provide sustainable business and livelihood support to 15,000 SHGs and they would be able to earn additional income of at least Rs. 1 lakh per annum.
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