Bihar government Drone Didi Scheme, women will receive up to 80% subsidy for purchasing drones

The Bihar government has initiated the Drone Didi Scheme to empower women technologically and economically. Under this scheme, women are provided a subsidy of up to 80% of the total cost of drones and related kits, amounting to ₹8 lakh.

Program Launch:

Bihar’s Agriculture Minister, Mangal Pandey, inaugurated a one-day workshop under the Drone Didi Scheme in Patna. Addressing 201 women from self-help groups across 16 districts, the minister emphasized the importance of adopting and leveraging new technologies for progress and productivity.

Subsidy and Training Highlights of Drone Didi Scheme:

1. 80% Subsidy: Up to ₹8 lakh subsidy for drones and kits, with the remaining ₹2 lakh provided through Jeevika groups.
2. Target: The scheme aims to benefit 14,500 groups by FY 2024-25 and 2025-26.
3. Drone Training: A free 15-day drone pilot training program will be conducted in Patna.
4. Drone Distribution: A total of 201 drones will be distributed across the state.
5. Agricultural Drones: Availability of drones in all 101 sub-divisions of the state.

Benefits of Drone Usage: The use of drones for spraying pesticides and liquid fertilizers saves time and reduces costs, significantly enhancing farmers’ productivity and income. Minister Pandey highlighted that compared to traditional spraying equipment; drones are more efficient and time-saving.

Application Process for Drone Didi Scheme:

Farmers, agricultural clinic founders, equipment banks, self-help groups, pesticide dealers, farmer producer organizations (FPOs), NGOs, private entities, and registered companies can apply for the scheme. Applications can be submitted on the Agricultural Mechanization Scheme’s official website (www.farmech.bih.nic.in) Beneficiaries will be selected through a lottery process.

A New Direction for Agriculture and Women Empowerment in Bihar: To ensure effective implementation and monitoring, a state-level committee headed by the Agriculture Department Secretary has been formed. Drone purchases will only be allowed through DGCA-registered drones for agricultural use. The launch event witnessed the presence of senior officials, scientists, and over 200 women from Jeevika groups across various districts.