Chamba Deputy Director of Agriculture, Dr. Kuldeep Dhiman, announced that women self-help groups in the district will receive drones at an 80 per cent subsidy under the Namo Didi Scheme, aiming to ease farming tasks and reduce labor dependency. The scheme covers 80 per cent of drone and accessory costs. The initiative is expected to generate additional income for SHGs and contribute to sustainable livelihoods.
The Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Department of Rural Development, and Department of Fertilizers are collaborating to cover 80 per cent or around Rs 8 lakh of drone and accessory costs, with the remaining 20 per cent financed through low-interest loans from the National Agriculture Infrastructure Financing Facility with a 3 per cent interest subvention. SHG members will undergo 15-day training, including mandatory drone pilot and agricultural training, and two drone pilot and assistant training before purchasing drones.
Dr. Kuldeep Dhiman highlighted the importance of subsidized drones that will help to increase productivity on farming tasks and generate income for loan repayment. Due to the shortage of labor force, spraying pesticides on trees and crops becomes challenging, where SHGs can use drones to enhance productivity. He announced that Himachal Pradesh will receive 16 drones under the scheme, with Chamba district allocated based on demand.
