Tech-enabled drones are quietly revolutionizing farming in India’s rural areas, led by ‘Namo drone didis’ who are reshaping agricultural practices and creating jobs. In Khairagarh, Chhattisgarh, Savitri Sahu, a ‘drone didi,’ is utilizing advanced drone technology to boost farm productivity and provide employment opportunities locally.
The ‘Namo Drone Didi’ scheme by the Central government aims to empower women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) by equipping them with drone technology for agricultural services. Savitri Sahu, through her drone services, has not only established a reputation in her village but has also become a symbol of modern agriculture, enhancing efficiency and reducing operational costs for farmers.
The use of drones has significantly increased productivity and saved time for farmers in Khairagarh. Tasks like pesticide spraying, which used to take over two hours per acre, are now completed in just 10 minutes. This efficiency has led to reduced water and pesticide consumption, cutting operational expenses and raising hopes for improved crop yields.
Savitri Sahu, with the support of the ‘Namo Drone Didi Scheme,’ now earns a substantial income ranging from Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000 daily, transforming her life and that of her family. Her husband, Premchand Sahu, highlights how their dream of drone ownership for modernizing farming practices became a reality through a government subsidy, bringing a new direction to their agricultural endeavors.
District Panchayat CEO Prem Kumar Patel notes that Savitri Sahu, after receiving training in Gwalior, is among the early beneficiaries of the scheme. Hailing from Khapri Teli village, Savitri, known as the “Drone Didi,” has become an inspiration in the region, showcasing that with access to opportunities and technology, rural women can excel in new domains.
