New Delhi: The Government of India has released operational guidelines for the Namo Drone Didi Scheme. The project aims to benefit 14,500 selected women self-help groups (SHGs).
The plan proposes to deploy drones for agricultural purposes, allowing women to rent out liquid fertilizer and pesticide applications. It is scheduled to be implemented over two years, from 2024 to 2026. The initiative will be implemented in several rural areas across India.
The government would provide 80% financial help for drone purchases and associated expenses, with a maximum of Rs 8 lakh. Those selected will receive training for drone operations and agricultural applications.
Moreover, Rs. 1,261 crore has been allocated for this initiative by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
The Namo Drone Didi Scheme represents a departure from India’s typical usage of drone technology, which has mostly been limited to military applications and surveillance.
Training for the SHGs
- Each SHG will pick one member for mandatory 15-day drone pilot training on agricultural applications such as nutrient and pesticide spraying.
- A family member will be trained as a drone helper, specializing in repair and maintenance.
- Training will be provided at DGCA-approved Remote Pilot Training Organizations (RPTOs).
Furthermore, leading fertilizer companies will play an important role in the scheme’s execution, working with state departments, drone manufacturers, and farmers.
The system will be effectively monitored by an IT-based Management Information System (MIS), also known as the Drone Portal, which will serve as end-to-end software for service delivery and monitoring, fund flow, and fund disbursement. The platform will also follow each drone’s actions and provide real-time information on drone utilization.
The scheme’s activities are expected to give SHGs with long-term business and livelihood support, as well as opportunities to earn additional money. The initiative will aid in the integration of new technologies into agriculture, resulting in higher efficiency, increased crop yield, and lower operating costs for farmers.
While the government has reportedly said that it will provide 80% financial assistance, the scheme requires SHGs to raise the remaining 20% of the cost through loans. This may push financially vulnerable groups into debt, especially if the economic returns from drone usage in agriculture do not meet expectations. The loan-based model could amplify financial risks, making it challenging for SHGs to gain net economic benefits.
Functionality of the Drones
Drones are classified by the Central Government based on their maximum all-up weight, including payload, into the following categories:
- Nano: Weighs less than or equal to 250 grams
- Micro: Weighs more than 250 grams but less than or equal to 2 kilograms
- Small: Weighs more than 2 kilograms but less than or equal to 25 kilograms
- Medium: Weighs more than 25 kilograms but less than or equal to 150 kilograms
- Large: Weighs more than 150 kilograms
Additionally, the maximum altitude for flying a drone in India is 400 feet (120 meters) above ground level (AGL)
The operational guidelines for the Namo Drone Didi Scheme state that for medium rotorcraft specifically, the drone must operate within the vLOS and below the altitude restriction of 400 feet.
- vLOS stands for “visual line of sight,” meaning that the drone operator must keep the drone within their line of sight while flying.
