‘NAMO DRONE DIDI’ SCHEME

TAG: GS-3: ECONOMIC & GS-2: SOCIAL ISSUES

CONTEXT: Under the ‘Namo Drone Didi’ scheme, Rs 1261 crore has been allocated to empower 14,500 women self-help groups from 2024 to 2026. It aims to assist farmers by renting out drones for agricultural purposes.

EXPLANATION:

About ‘Namo Drone Didi:

• This initiative was launched on November 30, 2023, after his interaction with women beneficiaries of the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra.
• The scheme is part of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).
• The Centre will provide each SHG identified a subsidy of up to 80% towards the cost of a drone or a maximum of Rs 8 lakh. It is expected to generate an additional income of about Rs 1 lakh per head for them.
• The scheme targets 14,500 selected Women SHGs across India. These groups will receive drones and training to operate them effectively. The focus is on empowering women and providing them with new income opportunities.

• • The women beneficiaries are trained to become drone pilots under the initiative.
  • The trained women drone pilots will help farmers in various agricultural operations like fertiliser spraying, sowing seeds and crop monitoring. This will help rural women generate income by utilising their skills.
  • The initiative intends to modernise Indian agricultural practices and enhance productivity by placing cutting-edge technology at the disposal of rural women.

The drone package includes essential equipment for agricultural use:

• A basic drone with a spray assembly
• Drone carrying box – Standard battery set
• Downward-facing camera
• Dual-channel fast battery charger
• Additional tools like an anemometer and pH meter
• One-year onsite warranty

Moreover, the package includes spare batteries, propellers, and a comprehensive training program.

Significance of the Scheme:

• Financial Assistance: Will provide 80% financial assistance for the purchase of drones. The government has fixed the maximum subsidy for this at ₹8.0 lakh.
  • Women SHGs can avail of loans for the remaining amount through the National Agriculture Infrastructure Financing Facility (AIF). A 3% interest rebate will also be available on these loans.
• Training and Capacity Building: Training is an essential component of this scheme. One member from each SHG will be given 15 days of training. It includes drone pilot training and agricultural application techniques. Another member will be trained as a drone assistant, focusing on repair and maintenance.
• Role of Lead Fertilizer Companies: Leading Fertilizer Companies (LFCs) will act as implementing agencies at the state level. They will coordinate with state departments, drone manufacturers and SHGs. LFCs will ensure a transparent procurement process for drones.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: An IT-based Management Information System (MIS) will monitor the scheme’s progress. This Drone Portal will track drone operations, fund disbursement, and overall service delivery. It aims to provide real-time updates on usage and performance.
  • The scheme will be overseen by an Empowered Committee at the central level. This committee comprises secretaries from various departments, including Agriculture and Rural Development. An Implementation and Monitoring Committee will ensure effective execution and provide guidance.

What is Self-Help Groups?

• Self-help groups (SHGs) are micro-entrepreneurial groups, primarily comprising women, that aim to reduce poverty and enhance economic empowerment.
• Started in the 1970s, SHGs gained prominence in India in the 1990s, especially through initiatives such as the SHG Bank Linkage Project. These groups follow a structured process of formation, capital accumulation, credit access and income generation by engaging in various activities such as agriculture, handicrafts and small businesses.
• The benefits of SHGs include improved nutrition, gender equality and resilience against poverty. However, SHGs face challenges such as economic limitations, regional disparities, socio-cultural barriers and accountability issues. Their challenges and maximize their potential for socio-economic development.

Source:

https://static.pib.gov.in/WriteReadData/specificdocs/documents/2024/nov/doc2024114428601.pdf