In a bold move to modernize agriculture and uplift rural communities, the Maharashtra government has launched the groundbreaking ‘Namo Drone Didi’ initiative. This program is not just about drones—it’s about empowering women, transforming farming, and creating a sustainable future for India’s agricultural heartland.
Drones Take Flight in Rural Maharashtra
The ‘Namo Drone Didi’ scheme, unveiled as part of Maharashtra’s 2024-25 budget, is set to equip 325 Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) with agricultural drones. These high-tech tools will enable rural women to take on roles as certified drone operators, offering Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS) to local farmers. From spraying fertilizers to monitoring crop health, drones are poised to revolutionize farming practices in one of India’s most agriculturally significant states.
With an 80% subsidy on each drone—up to ₹8 lakh (around $9,600)—the program ensures affordability while providing structured training to participants. This dual focus on technology and skill development is a game-changer, bridging the gap between rural women and cutting-edge agri-tech.
A New Era of Precision Farming
Maharashtra’s agricultural sector is no stranger to innovation, but the ‘Namo Drone Didi’ initiative takes things to the next level. By integrating drones into farming, the state aims to optimize resource use, reduce operational costs, and boost crop yields. Precision farming techniques, powered by drones, allow for targeted application of fertilizers and pesticides, minimizing waste and environmental impact.
Prem Kumar, CEO & Co-Founder of Marut Drones, emphasized the transformative potential of the scheme:
“This initiative will bring precision farming to the forefront, empowering women with specialized drone operation skills. It’s not just about farming efficiency—it’s about creating a sustainable and resilient agricultural ecosystem.”
Empowering Women, One Drone at a Time
Beyond its agricultural benefits, the ‘Namo Drone Didi’ program is a powerful tool for women’s economic empowerment. By offering drone services to farmers, participating SHGs can earn up to ₹60,000 per month (approximately $700). This additional income stream fosters financial independence and encourages rural entrepreneurship, creating a ripple effect of positive change in communities.
The initiative is part of a larger national effort, with the Indian government allocating ₹500 crore (around $57 million) to provide drones to 15,000 SHGs over the next two years. In its first phase, 3,090 SHGs will receive drones, with each group expected to generate at least ₹1 lakh (approximately $1,200) in additional annual income.
A Blueprint for the Future
Maharashtra’s ‘Namo Drone Didi’ scheme is more than just a local initiative—it’s a blueprint for the future of agriculture and rural development. By combining technology with social empowerment, the program sets a precedent for other states and countries looking to modernize their agricultural practices while addressing gender inequality.
As the drones take to the skies, they carry with them the hopes of rural women, the promise of sustainable farming, and the potential for a brighter, more equitable future.
