UP’s new drone policy is revolutionizing agriculture by promoting precision farming and innovation. With streamlined regulations, subsidies, and training programs, the state aims to empower farmers and startups. The policy supports drone use for crop monitoring, pesticide spraying, and soil analysis, fostering sustainable practices and boosting yields. It aligns with India’s vision to become a global drone hub by 2030.
Uttar Pradesh’s Drone Policy Fuels Agricultural Transformation
Streamlined Regulations for Drone Use
Uttar Pradesh has introduced a progressive drone policy to simplify compliance for farmers and agri-tech startups. The policy aligns with the DGCA’s Drone Rules 2021, reducing bureaucratic hurdles by minimizing paperwork and permissions. Farmers can now register drones on the Digital Sky platform and obtain a Unique Identification Number (UIN) effortlessly, enabling legal operations for agricultural tasks like spraying and monitoring.
Subsidies and Financial Support
The UP government is offering subsidies of up to 80% on agricultural drones under schemes like the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM). This makes high-quality drones, costing ₹3.5 lakh to ₹10 lakh, accessible to small and marginal farmers. For instance, a ₹5 lakh drone can be purchased for ₹1–2 lakh with subsidies, encouraging widespread adoption.
Focus on Precision Agriculture
The policy promotes precision farming through drone applications like targeted pesticide spraying, soil analysis, and crop health monitoring. Drones equipped with AI, GPS, and multispectral imaging help farmers detect pest attacks, nutrient deficiencies, and irrigation needs, improving yields by 15–25% and reducing chemical use by 20–30%, fostering sustainable practices.
Empowering Women and Rural Entrepreneurs
Inspired by national initiatives like Namo Drone Didi, UP’s policy emphasizes training women’s self-help groups (SHGs) to operate drones. These groups can offer Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS), earning ₹500–₹700 per acre for spraying. This creates rural entrepreneurship opportunities, with SHGs potentially earning ₹60,000–₹1 lakh monthly by servicing 100 acres.
Support for Agri-Tech Startups
The policy fosters innovation by supporting drone startups through the Drone Shakti scheme and Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) programs. UP is establishing drone training hubs and testing corridors to encourage research and development. Startups like Marut Drones and Amber Wings are leveraging these incentives to develop advanced drones for agriculture, such as hybrid VTOL models for spraying and mapping.
Integration with AI and IoT
UP’s policy encourages the integration of drones with AI and IoT for real-time data analytics. Drones collect multispectral imagery and thermal data, which, when combined with IoT sensors, enable precise irrigation and fertilization. This reduces water and chemical overuse, addressing India’s groundwater depletion concerns and aligning with climate-resilient farming goals.
Regional Customization and Training
The policy emphasizes region-specific drone solutions tailored to UP’s diverse crops, like sugarcane and wheat. Training programs in local languages, in collaboration with agricultural universities, ensure farmers and operators are skilled in using drones effectively. This bridges the knowledge gap, especially in rural areas, boosting adoption rates.
Economic and Environmental Impact
By promoting drone use, UP aims to enhance agricultural productivity while reducing environmental impact. Drones cut pesticide use, lower soil contamination, and optimize resource use, contributing to sustainable farming. The policy also supports India’s goal of becoming a global drone hub by 2030, with UP positioning itself as a leader in agri-tech innovation.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent reports, government policies, and industry insights available from web sources and news outlets. Information is subject to change as regulations evolve. Readers are advised to verify details with official government sources like the DGCA or UP’s agriculture department for the latest updates.