Information last reviewed: [Add review date] — schemes can change; confirm with the official source before applying.
Quick answer
The Kisan Drone initiative was announced in the Union Budget 2022–23 to promote drones for crop assessment, digitisation of land records and spraying of pesticides and nutrients. In February 2022, 100 kisan drones were flagged off across India. It is supported through farm mechanisation schemes, demonstrations, training and initiatives such as Namo Drone Didi, rather than one standalone subsidy.
Key takeaways
- Announced in Budget 2022–23; 100 kisan drones flagged off in February 2022.
- Aims: crop assessment, land record digitisation, spraying of pesticides and nutrients.
- Implemented through existing schemes, demonstrations and training.
- Farmers benefit mainly through wider access to drone services.
Background
In the Union Budget 2022–23, the government announced that Kisan Drones would be promoted for crop assessment, digitisation of land records and spraying of insecticides and nutrients. Soon after, in February 2022, the Prime Minister flagged off 100 kisan drones in different parts of the country to demonstrate drone spraying.
This came alongside wider reforms — the liberalised Drone Rules (opens in a new window), 2021, a production-linked incentive scheme for drones and drone components, and the interim approval process for spraying pesticides by drone.
Aims of the Kisan Drone push
- Faster, more uniform spraying of pesticides and nutrients
- Crop assessment and monitoring from the air
- Support for land record digitisation
- New rural jobs for drone pilots and service providers
- Reduced exposure of farm workers to chemicals
Linked schemes and programmes
| Programme | Role |
|---|---|
| Farm mechanisation (SMAM) | Support for demonstrations and drone purchases by eligible groups |
| Namo Drone Didi | Drones for selected women's SHGs to provide services |
| Drone Rules, 2021 | Simpler rules for owning and flying drones |
| SOP for drone spraying | Safe procedures for pesticide and nutrient application |
| RPTO training | Certified pilots through DGCA-authorised institutes |
What it means for farmers today
Access to services
More drone operators — FPOs, CHCs, SHGs and entrepreneurs — now offer spraying in many districts. Most farmers benefit by hiring these services.
Demonstrations
KVKs and agricultural institutions have held demonstrations so farmers can see drones at work before deciding.
Opportunities for youth
Young people in villages can train as certified pilots and start drone service businesses, sometimes with scheme support.
Common misunderstandings
- “Every farmer gets a free drone” — not true
- “There is one Kisan Drone Yojana with a fixed subsidy” — support comes through several schemes with their own rules
- “Anyone can fly a drone without training” — a Remote Pilot Certificate is required
- “Any pesticide can be sprayed by drone” — only approved products should be used
How to take part
If you are a farmer, start by booking a drone spraying service or attending a demonstration. If you represent an FPO, cooperative or CHC, or you are a young entrepreneur, check the current guidelines for drone purchase support with your state agriculture department and consider certified pilot training.
Timeline of key drone policy steps
| When | What happened |
|---|---|
| August 2021 | Drone Rules, 2021 notified, simplifying ownership and operation |
| 2021–22 | Standard operating procedures issued for drone application of pesticides and nutrients |
| February 2022 | Kisan Drones announced in the Union Budget; 100 kisan drones flagged off |
| 2022 | Farm mechanisation guidelines updated to support agriculture drones |
| November 2023 | Namo Drone Didi approved for women's self-help groups |
The road ahead
Drone use in Indian agriculture is still growing. As more crops and products get approval for drone application, more pilots are certified and service networks reach smaller towns, drones are likely to become a routine part of crop protection — much like tractors became part of field preparation. Farmers who learn how to use drone services well today will be ready to benefit as the ecosystem matures.
Official sources
These links open government websites in a new window. Website addresses can change.
- Department of Agriculture & Farmers WelfareGuidelines and notices for central schemes(opens in a new window)
- Farm Mechanisation Portal (agrimachinery.nic.in)Information and applications for farm mechanisation schemes(opens in a new window)
- DGCA Digital SkyDrone registration, Remote Pilot Certificate, RPTOs and airspace map(opens in a new window)
- Ministry of Civil AviationDrone rules and notifications(opens in a new window)
- [Your state agriculture department]Add the official link for the state you serve
Frequently asked questions
What is the Kisan Drone scheme?
A government push, announced in Budget 2022–23, to promote drones for crop assessment, land record digitisation and spraying, implemented through several schemes and programmes.
When was the Kisan Drone initiative launched?
It was announced in the Union Budget on 1 February 2022, and 100 kisan drones were flagged off later that month.
Do farmers get free drones under the scheme?
No. Support is targeted at specific groups and comes with conditions. Most farmers benefit by hiring drone services.
Is Kisan Drone a separate subsidy scheme?
Not a single standalone scheme. Support comes through farm mechanisation programmes, Namo Drone Didi and state initiatives.
How can I benefit from kisan drones?
Hire a drone spraying service, attend a demonstration, or — if eligible — apply for purchase support through official channels.
Can young people start a drone business under this push?
Yes. Training as a certified pilot and starting a service business is one of the intended outcomes, sometimes with scheme support for eligible applicants.
Where can I get current information?
From the Ministry of Agriculture, your state agriculture department, your district agriculture office or KVK.
What is the difference between Kisan Drone and Namo Drone Didi?
Kisan Drone is the broader push to promote drones in agriculture. Namo Drone Didi is a specific initiative under that broader effort, providing drones to selected women's SHGs.
Are kisan drones only used for spraying?
Spraying is the most common use, but the initiative also covers crop assessment and land record digitisation using drones with cameras.
About this guide
- Written by
- Kisan Drone team, Noida. We work with farmers, FPOs and drone operators on spraying, buying and training questions.
- Reviewed by
- Mohit Singh, Drone Operator — 10 years of drone-spraying experience
- Last updated
How we write
We do not publish invented prices, subsidy amounts, yields or reviews. Rules and schemes are checked against official sources, and anything that depends on your crop, product or location is marked as such. Found an error? Email enquiry@kisandrone.co.in.