The Union Cabinet approved the Central Sector Scheme to provide drones to Women Self Help Groups (SHGs)
Central Sector Scheme to Provide Drones to Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs): The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has approved a significant initiative – a Central Sector Scheme aimed at empowering Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) by providing them with drones. With a substantial budget allocation of Rs. 1261 Crore spanning from 2024-25 to 2025-26, the Government of India (GOI) has approved the budget for this programme seeks to uplift rural women.
Central Sector Scheme to Provide Drones to Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
Central Sector Scheme: Empowering Women SHGs with Drones in Agriculture
Objectives and Vision:
Aligned with the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Central Sector Scheme aims to empower Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) by providing drones for agricultural purposes. With an outlay of Rs. 1261 Crore for the period from 2024-25 to 2025-26, the scheme seeks to introduce technological advancements in agriculture and enhance the role of women in this sector.
Key Highlights:
- Holistic Interventions:
- The scheme integrates efforts from various departments and stakeholders including the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Department of Rural Development, Department of Fertilizers, Women SHGs, and Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs).
- Identification of Clusters:
- Economically feasible clusters for drone usage will be identified, and 15,000 women SHGs across various states within these clusters will be selected for drone provision.
- Financial Assistance:
- Women SHGs will receive central financial assistance covering 80% of the drone’s cost and accessories/ancillary charges, up to a maximum of Rs. Eight Lakh.
- The Cluster Level Federation (CLFs) of SHGs can raise the remaining amount as a loan under the National Agriculture Infra Financing Facility with a 3% interest subvention.
- Training for SHG Members:
- One member of the SHG will undergo a 15-day training, including mandatory 5-day drone pilot training and an additional 10-day training for agriculture purposes.
- Another member or family member inclined towards electrical, fitting, and mechanical work will be trained as a drone technician/assistant.
- Role of Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs):
- LFCs will facilitate the procurement, repair, and maintenance of drones for SHGs.
- They will also promote the use of Nano Fertilizers like Nano Urea and Nano DAP through drones.
- Income Generation for SHGs:
- SHGs will rent out drone services to farmers for Nano fertilizer and pesticide applications, aiming to provide sustainable business and livelihood support with an additional income target of at least Rs. One lakh per annum.
- Technological Advancements in Agriculture:
- The scheme intends to infuse advanced technology in agriculture, enhancing efficiency, increasing crop yield, and reducing operational costs for the benefit of farmers.
What is the objective of the Central Sector Scheme for providing drones to Women SHGs in agriculture?
The scheme aims to empower Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) by providing them with drones for agricultural purposes, thereby introducing technological advancements and enhancing their role in agriculture
How much funding has been allocated for this scheme, and for what period?
The scheme has a budget outlay of Rs. 1261 Crore allocated for the period from 2024-25 to 2025-26.
How will the scheme ensure the successful implementation and sustainability of drone services in agriculture?
The scheme includes comprehensive provisions for training SHG members, financial assistance, and the involvement of Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs) to facilitate the procurement, repair, and maintenance of drones, ensuring the successful implementation and sustainability of drone services in agriculture.
