Goa is planning to expand drone farming in order to advance agriculture.

The agricultural drone, which differs from other types of drones, has a diameter of 1.5 meters and can transport either 10 litres of pesticide or 10 kilograms of weedicide. The Department of Agriculture has proposed to the central government a 10% increase in subsidies to help farmers purchase agricultural drones for themselves.

The Goa Directorate of Agriculture hopes to encourage farmers to use drone technology by purchasing two drones. These drones will be used to instruct farmers on the proper use of pesticides, weedicides, and water-soluble fertilizers in agricultural techniques.

The agricultural drone, which differs from other types of drones, has a diameter of 1.5 meters and can transport either 10 litres of pesticide or 10 kilograms of weedicide. George Quadros in Chinchinim was the first to put this technology into practice. He successfully treated fields by dispersing nano urea with an agricultural drone, evenly scattering microdroplets of the fertilizer onto paddy crops.

According to agriculture director Nevil Alphonso, "This advancement will provide significant assistance to farmers in Goa by reducing their reliance on labour and saving time. Although farmers may need some time to adjust to new technology, we will offer training sessions through zonal agriculture offices to familiarize them with it."

The Department of Agriculture has proposed to the central government a 10% increase in subsidies to help farmers purchase agricultural drones for themselves. Alphonso stated that the state government wants to grant an additional 10% subsidy.

Also Read: Drones: The Future of Indian Agriculture

How much assistance is available?

Currently, the centre gives financial assistance equal to 40% of the base price of the drone and its accompanying components, with a maximum of Rs 4 lakh or the lesser of the two sums. This aid is provided through the Farmers Producer Organization, Cooperative Society of Farmers, and Rural Entrepreneurs' Scheme.

*Who is eligible?

Farmers must obtain drones that have been approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation in order to qualify. They must have a valid drone pilot license and keep their flights under prescribed altitude limits. It should be mentioned that farms located near Army or Navy sites may be forbidden from using drones.

Farmers interested in adopting this technology for their fields will be able to rent agricultural drones from the Department of Agriculture.