An agriculture drone subsidy scheme redefines farming practice across India, making drones accessible to all farmers. The initiative reduces the economic burden of introducing cutting-edge technologies, thus increasing production, reducing costs, and improving sustainability in farming. Next, we will see how this subsidy works and how it can benefit you.
What is the Agriculture Drone Subsidy?
The subsidy for agricultural drones is part of the SMAM, a scheme supporting agricultural mechanization. This scheme provides financial assistance for farmers and agricultural enterprises to acquire drones. As a result, farmers can use drones in various activities. These activities may include personal farming, training, or even starting a drone business.
Here’s how the agriculture drone subsidy works: (source)
1. Support for Agricultural Institutions and Demonstrations
Institutions such as the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Farm Machinery Training & Testing Institutes, and other government authorities may be eligible for a 100% subsidy for purchasing up to Rs. 10 lakhs-worth of drones for demonstration to farmers. Besides, Farmers’ Producer Organizations (FPOs) could get up to 75% assistance for drone demonstrations on farmers’ fields.
- Agriculture Drone Subsidy for Rental Services
Additionally, the subsidy provides financial assistance for Custom Hiring Centers (CHCs) or drone service holders. Specifically, it offers 40% of the unit cost, up to Rs. 4 lakh, for drone purchases. In contrast, agricultural graduates who are redeveloping their own centers are eligible for a 50% assistance limit, with a maximum of Rs. 5 lakh.
- Subsidy for Individual Farmers
Subsidy on buying drones will be available to individual farmers, especially small and marginal farmers, women farmers, SC/ST farmers, and farmers from the northeastern states. They are eligible for 50% assistance up to Rs. 5 lakhs, while others can get 40% assistance up to Rs. 4 lakhs.
Agricultural Drone Subsidy and Growth Overview in India
| Aspect | Details |
| Agriculture Gross Value | $440.80 billion (2024), growing at 7.91% annually (2024-2028) |
| Government Budget | 1.9% of total Union Budget for agriculture (FY24), supporting small-scale farmers through PM KISAN Yojana |
| Food Production | 309 million tonnes in 2023-24 (down from 329.6 million tonnes in 2022-23) |
| Drone Usage | Over 220 drone startups; aiding in precision farming, crop monitoring, and resource optimization |
| Kisan Drone Subsidy Program | Financial aid: Up to Rs 4 lakhs for general farmers; Rs 5 lakhs for marginal, women, or scheduled caste farmers |
| Government Initiatives | NaMo Drone Didi Scheme (15,000 drones to women SHGs) and funding for farm machinery training |
| ICAR’s Role | Research on drones and AI, training farmers, developing drone usage standards |
| Challenges | High initial cost, regulatory hurdles, and need for operator training |
| Market Growth | Expected to grow at 38.5% CAGR, reaching $121.43 million by 2030 |
(source)
The Growing Adoption of Agriculture Drones
The agriculture drone subsidy has, however, led to a bigger acceptance of drone technology. A budget of about Rs. 129.19 crores is assigned to promote Kisan Drones, which enabled the purchase of more than 300 demonstration drones and establishment of more than 1500 Custom Hiring Centers (CHCs). The efforts under these schemes are instrumental in popularizing drone usage amongst farmers across the length and breadth of India, especially in Gujarat, where 13 Kisans were approved for demonstration purposes.
Why Drones Are a Must-Have for Modern Agriculture
Drones hold several advantages for farmers within modern agriculture:
- High Efficiency: Drones help cover vast areas at a quicker pace, saving time and maximizing production.
- Precision: They allow for targeted spraying of pesticides and fertilizers, thus minimizing waste and application costs.
- Water Conservation: Spraying with drones is done with ultra-low volume, which saves water as compared to traditional spraying methods.
- Cost Savings: Drones do help farmers save money by cutting down on labor costs and better management of inputs.
- Safety: Drones expose farmers to reduced levels of dangerous chemicals and thereby enhance the working conditions in the field.
How to Access the Agriculture Drone Subsidy
In order to get the agriculture drone subsidy, the applicant should submit a project proposal regarding funding from the related department or organization in charge of agriculture. The local implementation militants to guide the proposal process include, but are not limited to, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), Custom Hiring Centers (CHCs), and other agricultural offices..
FAQs
- Who can receive the subsidy for agriculture drones?
The program is available to farmers, including but not limited to small, marginal, women, Scheduled Caste/Tribe farmers, agricultural institutions, and Farmers’ Producer Organizations (FPOs).
- What is the amount of financial assistance I can avail under the agriculture drone subsidy?
Depending on the category, financial assistance can be provided in the form of 40% to 100%, with individual farmers up to 5 lakhs and institutions up to 10 lakhs.
- In which way can I avail the agriculture drone subsidy?
You can also send a proposal to any of the agriculture departments, such as Krishi Vigyan Kendras or Custom Hiring Centers, and adhere to the application procedures given by them.
Conclusion
This agriculture drone subsidy presents a remarkable opportunity for farmers to embrace drone technology and enhance their current farming practices. Moreover, financial support for entities purchasing drones to set up rental services or conduct demonstrations is helping elevate some farmers to new levels. Consequently, this initiative is paving the way for the next generation of farming. Ready to explore the incredible benefits drones can bring to your farm? This subsidy program could be your perfect fit!