NEW DELHI, 11 August 2025: The Namo Drone Didi scheme, launched as a Central Sector initiative with an outlay of INR 1,261 crore for 2023-24 to 2025-26, is making measurable impact on rural women’s livelihoods and agricultural productivity, according to a government study.
The programme provides drones to Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) to enable precision agriculture, reduce operational costs, and enhance crop yields. It also positions SHGs as drone service providers, opening new income avenues.
In 2023-24, Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs) distributed 1,094 drones to SHGs across 22 states, including 500 under the Namo Drone Didi scheme. These drones are primarily used for spraying nano fertilizers.
A study conducted by the Agricultural Development and Rural Transformation Centre (ADRTC), Bengaluru, found that SHGs—earlier engaged mainly in traditional farming—have expanded into modern agricultural services, improving efficiency, productivity, and income. “The adoption of drones has diversified SHG activities and strengthened rural women’s role in agri-technology,” the report noted.
Karnataka topped the distribution with 147 drones, followed by Andhra Pradesh (106), Uttar Pradesh (135) and Haryana (102). Smaller allocations went to states such as Goa, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir.
The Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Ramnath Thakur, informed the Rajya Sabha that the scheme not only supports sustainable farming practices but also aligns with the government’s vision of empowering rural women through technology-driven entrepreneurship.
