Namo Drone Didi Yojana: Karnataka is a Leader in Training Women Drone Pilots

Karnataka Leads in Drone Didi Application.

Karnataka has become the best performing state in training women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) as drone pilots as part of Namo Drone Didi Yojana. The project enhances the empowerment of women, as well as injecting modern technology in the agricultural sector to facilitate precision farming and the enhancement of rural livelihoods.

Background of the Scheme.

Namo Drone Didi Yojana is a central sector scheme which is associated with Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana -National Rural Livelihoods Mission. It seeks to supply drones to women headed SHGs to offer rental services to farmers. Spraying fertilisers and pesticides are the primary services offered which help in cutting down labour workforce and enhancing efficiency in agricultural activities.

Objectives and Targets

The plan aims at supplying 15,000 drones to SHGs within 202425 and 2526. It aims at increasing income-earning opportunities among the women in the rural areas besides promoting modern farming methods. The project also helps in the digital inclusion and technology based development in the rural regions.

Training and Financial Assistance.

The government offers the maximum financial aid of up to 80% to purchase drones, but limited by ₹8 lakh. The rest of the expenditure can be financed by loans under Agriculture Infrastructure Fund with interest subsidies. Every SHG selects one member to attend a 15 days training programme that involves drone piloting qualification and methods of farming applications.

Exam-Focused Points

• Scene: Namo Drone Didi Yojana (Central Sector)
• Target: 15,000 drones (2024–26)
• Subsidy: 80% up to ₹8 lakh
• Linked with: DAY-NRLM
• Target: Women empowerment + precision agriculture.

Implementation and Institutional Support.

The scheme is executed by liaising with several departments such as the Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Department of Rural Development and Department of Fertilisers. The role of women in contemporary agriculture is enhanced by the fact that there is support of fertiliser companies which guarantee technical support and the successful implementation of the process.