Women SHGs to get drones at 80% subsidy

In a significant push toward agricultural mechanisation and women’s empowerment, the women self-help groups in the district will get drones on 80% subsidy under the Namo Didi Scheme, Chamba Deputy Director of Agriculture Dr Kuldeep Dhiman said on Monday.

He said the initiative aims to ease farming tasks and reduce labour dependency. Interested SHGs have been told to apply within two days.

Under the scheme, SHGs will bear only 20% of the drone’s cost, amounting to Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 2 lakh, which can be financed through low-interest loans under the Agri-Infra Fund. Additionally, the government provides a 3% interest subsidy on such loans. The scheme also includes training for two members from each SHG — one as a drone pilot and the other as a drone assistant — prior to the purchase of drones.

Dr Dhiman highlighted that labour scarcity in rural areas has made farming tasks, such as spraying pesticides or fertilisers on tall crops and fruit trees, increasingly difficult. Subsidised drones will address these challenges, helping SHGs enhance productivity and generate income to repay loans with ease.

Himachal Pradesh will receive 16 drones under the scheme, with the allocation for Chamba district based on demand. Dr Dhiman urged interested SHGs to contact their nearest agricultural office or call 01899-222206 for assistance. He also clarified that SHGs formed under any department or scheme are eligible to apply. With applications closing in two days, SHGs are encouraged to act quickly to benefit from this transformative initiative.