Want to start drone spraying service. What SMAM subsidy applies to farmers, FPOs and custom hiring centres?
How much subsidy is available for agriculture drone spraying?
SSrikanth Goud6mo ago · 239 views
8 Answers
🌾Farmer.in Krishi TeamExpert ✓6mo ago
Under the Sub Mission on Agricultural Mechanisation (SMAM), drone subsidy depends on who buys. Individual farmers can get around 40 to 50 percent of the drone cost (higher end for SC ST, women and small or marginal farmers), subject to a cap. FPOs may get up to about 75 percent. Custom hiring centres set up by agriculture graduates can get around 50 percent, and existing CHCs run by cooperatives, FPOs or rural entrepreneurs around 40 percent, each with a ceiling amount. Agricultural and research institutions can get up to 100 percent for demonstration. Separately, the Namo Drone Didi scheme provides drones to women self help groups at high subsidy for rental service. Rates and caps change, so confirm the current figures and process with your state agriculture department before applying.
RRavi Teja6mo ago
Our FPO applied and got a large share of the drone cost covered. We now do spray service for member farmers per acre. The paperwork took time so start early with your department.
MMadhavi Latha5mo ago
A women SHG in our area got a drone under the Drone Didi scheme and rents spraying to farmers cheaply. Ask your block office which scheme fits you before buying anything.
LLingaiah Mudiraj5mo ago
Caution: even with subsidy you still pay a big balance, plus training and a licence to fly are needed, and there are running costs for batteries and repairs. Treat it as a business with real running cost, not just a one time purchase. Work out your per acre charge against local demand before committing.
SSai Krishna Reddy5mo ago
The exact subsidy amount and cap kept changing when we applied, so do not rely on figures you read online. Get the current sanctioned rate in writing from the district agriculture office before you order the drone.
AAnitha Rao5mo ago
Beyond the drone cost, factor in the cost of a trained pilot. We pay a per day rate to a certified operator because none of us were licensed at first. Budget for that until someone in your group gets trained.
BBhargav Reddy4mo ago
Apply through the right channel for your category. As an agriculture graduate I got the CHC route subsidy, which was different from what a plain individual farmer got. Tell the department exactly who you are so they put you in the correct scheme and slab.
SShabana Begum4mo ago
Demand for spray service is seasonal, so do not assume the drone runs all year. We earn well during cotton and paddy pest season and very little otherwise. Plan your repayment around those few busy months, not a steady monthly income.