Cabinet Nods Central Sector Scheme With Rs 1261 Crore Budget for Providing Drones to Women Self Help Groups

In a significant move towards empowering women in agriculture, the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has given its nod to a Central Sector Scheme aimed at providing drones to Women Self Help Groups (SHGs). The scheme, with a budget of Rs. 1261 Crore for the period 2024-25 to 2025-26, aims to enable 15,000 selected Women SHGs to offer rental drone services to farmers for agricultural purposes.

Aligned with the vision of Prime Minister Modi, the scheme seeks to bring new technologies, particularly drone services, into the agriculture sector, thereby fostering economic empowerment for women in rural areas.

Key Highlights of the Scheme:

* Holistic Interventions: The scheme integrates the efforts of the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Department of Rural Development, and Department of Fertilizers, along with the participation of Women SHGs and Lead Fertilizer Companies.

* Cluster-Based Approach: The scheme will identify appropriate clusters where the usage of drones is economically feasible. Fifteen thousand women SHGs in various states within these clusters will be selected to provide drone services.

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* Financial Assistance: Central Financial Assistance at 80% of the drone's cost, including accessories and ancillary charges, up to a maximum of Rs. Eight Lakh, will be provided to the women SHGs for purchasing drones. The remaining balance may be raised as a loan under the National Agriculture Infra Financing Facility.

* Training Programs: Members of the women SHGs will undergo a 15-day training program, including mandatory drone pilot training and additional training for agriculture purposes. Another member or family member will be trained as a drone technician/assistant for repair and maintenance.

* Role of Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs): LFCs will act as intermediaries between drone supplier companies and SHGs, facilitating procurement and maintenance. They will also promote the use of Nano Fertilizers through drone services.

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* Business and Livelihood Support: Envisioning sustainable business and livelihood support, the scheme aims to help 15,000 SHGs earn an additional income of at least Rs. One Lakh per annum by providing drone services to farmers.

The scheme is anticipated to inject advanced technology into agriculture, leading to improved efficiency, enhanced crop yield, and reduced operational costs, ultimately benefiting farmers and fostering economic growth in rural areas.

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