In a major step to modernize farming practices, the government has announced a 40% subsidy on agricultural drones, along with training support, to promote the use of advanced technology in the agriculture sector.
Subsidy of Up to ₹4 Lakh per Drone
Officials said farmers will receive:
- 40% subsidy on drone purchases
- Maximum financial support capped at ₹4 lakh per unit
The move is aimed at making drone technology more affordable, as the cost of each unit currently ranges between ₹9.5 lakh and ₹11.5 lakh.
Addressing Labour Shortage in Agriculture
The initiative comes amid a growing shortage of agricultural labour, pushing farmers to adopt mechanized and tech-driven solutions. Drones are increasingly being used for:
- Spraying fertilizers
- Applying pesticides
- Monitoring crops
These methods are not only faster but also more cost-effective compared to traditional manual labour.
Cost-Effective and Time-Saving Technology
Currently, many farmers rely on renting drones due to high ownership costs. The average hiring rate is:
- Around ₹400 per hour
- Coverage of 4–5 acres per hour
With subsidies, more farmers are expected to own drones, reducing dependency on rental services.
Training Support for Safe Usage
In addition to financial assistance, the government will provide training programmes to farmers to ensure:
- Safe handling of drones
- Efficient and precise usage
- Better crop management outcomes
Priority for FPOs and Cooperative Groups
The scheme will prioritize:
- Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs)
- Primary Agricultural Cooperative Societies
- Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
This approach aims to encourage collective ownership and shared usage, ensuring wider access to the technology.
Boost to Productivity and Input Efficiency
Agriculture department officials highlighted that drone usage can:
- Cover larger farm areas in less time
- Reduce input costs by optimizing use of fertilizers and pesticides
- Improve overall farm productivity
The initiative is expected to play a key role in digitizing Indian agriculture and promoting sustainable, efficient farming practices.
