S P Mohanty, MD of HURL and former CMD BVFCL writes this special piece on NAMO Drone Didi initiative for Bureaucrats India

In the realm of modern agriculture, the transformative impact of drones has emerged as a groundbreaking force, reshaping traditional practices and unlocking unprecedented potential. These unmanned aerial vehicles, once relegated to the domain of military and recreational applications, have seamlessly integrated into the fabric of farming, becoming a catalyst for efficiency, precision and sustainable resource management.

As we delve into the myriad applications and transformative impact of drone technology in agriculture, it becomes evident that these aerial marvels are not just tools; they represent a paradigm shift in how we cultivate the land and ensure global food security.

Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has underscored the significance of the NAMO Drone Didi initiative, highlighting its role in empowering women as integral contributors to local farming supply chains and rural prosperity.

The utilization of drones for the application of pesticides and liquid fertilizers not only relieves farmers from physical exertion but also introduces a faster, more efficient method, allowing more time for productive agricultural pursuits. Following Hon’ble PM’s call, various fertilizer companies (Lead Fertilizer Supplier) across the country have scripted an extraordinary tale of commitment and innovation. This visionary journey, driven by unwavering commitment, turned aspirations into realities, empowered farmers and left an indelible mark on the transformative landscape of the country.

Recognizing the pivotal role of women's empowerment in nation-building, particularly in their economic prosperity contributing to rural development, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's forward-thinking NAMO Drone Didi initiative, unveiled on November 30, 2023 aims to empower 15,000 women Self Help Groups (SHGs) through the provision of agricultural drones. This innovative approach utilizes technology to empower rural women, placing them in key positions within the agricultural revolution. Addressing the imperative for modernizing agricultural practices and enhancing productivity, NAMO Drone Didi places cutting-edge drone technology in the hands of rural women, transforming them into crucial contributors to the rural economy.

Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi's introduction of the "Drone Didi" scheme is truly commendable, underscoring his unwavering commitment to women's empowerment and rural development. The visionary NAMO Drone Didi initiative reflects his foresight in recognizing the pivotal role of women in nation-building. By aiming to empower Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) through the provision of agricultural drones, he has harnessed the power of technology to elevate rural women, positioning them as key players in the ongoing agricultural revolution. This innovative scheme not only addresses the imperative for modernizing agricultural practices but also contributes to enhancing overall productivity. Placing cutting-edge drone technology in the hands of rural women, Hon’ble Prime Minister Modi has taken a significant stride towards transforming them into indispensable contributors to the rural economy. This initiative stands as a testament to his commitment to fostering progress and inclusivity, reflecting a forward-thinking approach that has the potential to bring about lasting positive change in the lives of countless women across the nation.

Beyond unlocking opportunities for budding start-ups in drone aeronautics, the initiative tackles India's heavy reliance on fertilizer imports despite being the second-largest producer. The Atmanirbhar Bharat scheme focuses on revitalizing closed-down units and establishing new ones, ensuring stable fertilizer prices for farmers. In the backdrop of challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and global geopolitical tensions, the government encourages indigenous research, leading to groundbreaking liquid nano fertilizers. The introduction of Kisan Drones revolutionizes agricultural practices by automating the application of pesticides and liquid fertilizers, not only saving time but also ensuring a safer and more efficient application system.

The NAMO Drone Didi initiative not just empowers women in rural areas but also generates employment prospects for the younger generation in sectors like drone manufacturing, piloting, mechanics and spare-part dealerships. This initiative promotes fairness and resilience in agrarian family dynamics, wherein female drone pilots play a pivotal role in enhancing agricultural productivity and efficiency.

The nationwide campaign Vikshit Bharat Sankalp Yatra has been aimed at raising awareness and achieving the saturation of Government of India schemes. The Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra stands as a consequential initiative by the Government of India, aiming to enlighten the citizens residing in the remotest corners of the country about the various government schemes. This undertaking, designed as a two-way communication avenue, allows citizens to share their first-hand experiences, illustrating how they have derived benefits from these schemes, thereby bolstering their livelihoods. Our mission is not just to witness progress but to actively contribute to it. Hamara Sankalp Viksit Bharat is not a slogan; it's a call to action for every Gram Panchayat, Nagar Panchayat and Urban Local Body to be a catalyst for change.

Various teams of the fertilizer companies ensured seamless demonstrations in various Gram Panchayats, Nagar Panchayats and Urban Local Bodies of the country. It was ensured that drone praharis, along with vehicles for drone demonstrations, covered various regions of the country. Team members accompanied and remained present in all the demonstrations, generating awareness on PM-PRANAM, nano urea and the balanced use of fertilizers

The quality of soil in various parts of the country has been witnessing a decline due to the prevalent use of chemical fertilizers. Our concerted efforts involve educating farmers on achieving a harmonious balance between chemical and biofertilizers to preserve soil quality. The incorporation of biofertilizers and organic alternatives, in conjunction with chemical fertilizers, serves the dual purpose of maintaining soil health and sustaining productivity. Recognizing this need, the Government of India has introduced nano fertilizers that can be efficiently sprayed onto crop leaves. This revolutionary approach, coupled with the integration of drone technology, is reshaping agricultural practices in various regions of the country.

During my time at BVFCL, we have received testimonials from farmers in Assam, Tripura, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland which resonate with the positive impact of the drone initiative, highlighting the transformative effects of the Vikshit Bharat Sankalp Yatra (VBSY) and the government’s unwavering commitment to sustainable farming practices. Farmers like Mukunda Chetia in Assam and Shri Ronit Singh Brahma in Baksa express their enthusiasm for the drone demonstrations, emphasizing the potential for precision agriculture and increased yields. In Arunachal Pradesh, Mr. Tao Techi and Ms. Tabu Yaro from Yazali Agri-farm share their excitement about the efficiency and health benefits brought by this innovative technology. The initiative's positive influence on Meghalaya's Arbiangki Shullai and the perspectives of farmers in Nagaland and Tripura add valuable dimensions to the narrative of sustainable and tech-driven farming futures.

The VBSY's impact resonates across communities, with farmers like Mr. Manoj Kr. Gogoi emphasizing the uplifting vision that extends beyond technology. The event facilitated meaningful interactions, creating a profound connection between the government and the farming community. Testimonials from various farmers, including Diyudi from Ziro and a local from Longmisa village in Nagaland, offer first-hand feedback that highlight the positive outcomes that this innovation can bring about. From the excitement about advanced farming machines to the appreciation for the potential benefits of nano urea, these testimonials collectively paint a vivid picture of these breakthrough initiatives.

While Hamara Sankalp Viksit Bharat is a nationwide initiative, the approach implemented ensures a significant impact at the local level. Each drone and every drop of nano urea contributes to the larger narrative of sustainable development. Nationwide campaigns find success in local stories. Our efforts are not just about achieving numbers; they are about transforming lives.

In conclusion, the NAMO Drone Didi initiative, announced by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi during interaction with beneficiaries in Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, stands as a shining example of leveraging technological innovation to empower women in rural areas. This forward-thinking initiative is poised to open a new chapter in women's empowerment, addressing multiple challenges by placing rural women at the forefront of economic activity and rural prosperity. Supported by the extensive network of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Samriddhi Kendras, offering comprehensive agricultural services, this initiative holds the promise of catalyzing a contemporary agricultural revolution and fostering prosperity in a nation predominantly reliant on agrarian practices. As the NAMO Drone Didi scheme takes flight, it embodies the potential to bring about transformative change, bridging the technological gender gap and steering the trajectory toward a more inclusive and prosperous future for rural communities.

The author is former CMD, Brahnaputra Valley Fertilizer Corporation Limited (BVFCL), Namrup and currently MD, Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Limited (HURL), New Delhi