The Goa government is set to implement the centrally sponsored Namo Drone Didi scheme, aiming to modernize agricultural practices in the state. Scheduled to commence next month, the initiative seeks to introduce drones into farming operations, focusing on providing support to women’s self-help groups (SHGs). However, the program faces significant hurdles, including economic viability, restrictive drone operation zones, and limited training infrastructure.
Drone Didi Scheme Details and Subsidy Structure
Under the Namo Drone Didi scheme, ten women’s SHGs have been selected to receive drones valued at approximately US$9.299k (INR8 lakh) each. The central government will cover the full cost of these drones, easing the financial burden on recipients. This marks a departure from the earlier drone subsidy scheme, under which farmers were required to invest US$11.624k (INR10 lakh) per drone, with only a 50% subsidy offered. Despite the financial support, the high upfront cost has deterred many farmers from adopting the technology.
Challenges with Drone Operations
Several obstacles are impeding the integration of drones into Goa’s agricultural practices. One major issue is the state’s fragmented landholdings, which make drone operations economically unfeasible compared to regions with large, contiguous farmland. Former Director of Agriculture, Nevil Alfonso, emphasized that the small size and scattered nature of Goa’s agricultural plots present a unique challenge.
Additionally, restricted flying zones or “red zones,” limit drone usage in Goa. Fr. George Quadros of the Don Bosco Loutolim Society pointed out that approximately 30% of the state, including its entire coastline, falls under these zones, particularly affecting paddy fields in South Goa. Geologist and GIS expert Malcolm Afonso called for reclassification of certain red zones into “yellow zones,” which would permit drones to operate legally at lower altitudes. Afonso stressed that the current restrictions not only hamper agricultural innovation but also create fear of legal repercussions among drone operators.
Technical and Training Barriers
Experts have also raised concerns over technical challenges, such as the lack of standardization in pesticide spray concentrations. Improper dilution ratios could harm crops, highlighting the need for better technical training and guidelines. Currently, there are no drone training facilities in Goa, forcing interested operators to travel to cities like Pune or Bangalore for certification.
Potential Applications and Future Prospects
Despite these challenges, experts see promise in drone technology for specific agricultural applications. For instance, drones could be used in precision agriculture, including detecting crop diseases and optimizing pesticide application. Alfonso noted the potential benefits for coconut and areca nut cultivation, where drones can assist in spraying pesticides on crops that grow beneath the crown.
The Goa agriculture department is collaborating with institutions like BITS Pilani and the Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering in Lucknow to develop suitable technologies. However, officials believe that widespread adoption will require more demonstration trials on government-managed farms to build farmers’ confidence in the technology and the Namo Drone Didi scheme will help achieve that.
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Community-Based Implementation
The Namo Drone Didi scheme also incorporates a community-based approach by training SHG members to operate drones and obtain pilot licenses. These trained women as part of the Namo Drone Scheme can then offer drone services to farmers, creating a source of income while facilitating the adoption of drone technology. This model mirrors the successful integration of harvesting machines in Goa, which initially faced resistance but eventually gained acceptance.
Way Forward
The success of the Namo Drone Didi scheme will depend on addressing the key challenges of restricted drone operation zones, economic viability, and lack of training infrastructure. Experts and stakeholders agree that a supportive ecosystem is essential for the initiative to thrive. While the adoption of drones in Goa’s agriculture may take time, the Namo Drone Didi scheme represents a step toward modernizing the sector and empowering rural communities.
