Author: Kedar Kulkarni , Saransh Saini
DOI: https://doi.org/10.68120/IC2425C6   Page Numbers: 34 to 39

Keywords: Agriculture, Artificial Intelligence, IoT

Abstract: Traditional farming has been transformed using drones in agriculture practices, offering innovative solutions for crop monitoring and precision spraying. This research explores the impact of drones on agricultural productivity, focusing on their role in real-time data collection, disease detection, and optimized pesticide usage. The integration of AI and IoT with dronebased agriculture also presents both opportunities and technical challenges that require further study. Research gaps persist regarding the cost-effectiveness and return on investment (ROI) of drone-based agriculture, real-world performance data for precision spraying, environmental impacts, regulatory challenges, and the integration of AI and IoT. 

INTRODUCTION:
Agriculture is undergoing a significant transformation with the adoption of emerging technologies aimed at improving efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. Among these technologies, drones have gained considerable attention for their ability to enhance crop monitoring and precision spraying. Equipped with high-resolution cameras, multispectral sensors, and drones using AI-driven analytics offer real-time information on pest infestations, soil conditions, and crop health. Farmers may maximize resource allocation, reduce environmental impact, and make well-informed decisions thanks to this data-driven method.
On 15th August 2023, the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi announced the launch of the “Namo Drone Didi” Yojana, aimed at empowering women by guiding them into a sustainable business model that allows them to increase their income by more than Rs 1 lakh. The scheme includes Training, Funding & Allocation, Financial Assistance, Implementation, and Loan Application. The NDDYscheme will provide 80% funding up to Rs 8 lakh for drone procurement. The remaining amount can be availed as a loan from AIF at a 3% subsidy. KISAN DRONE SCHEME – ‘AKASHDOOT’ is designed for purchasing new drones along with equipment/accessories for agricultural uses, such as spraying pesticides, fertilizers, anti- locust spraying, mapping of farmlands, crop monitoring, soil and field analysis, planting, and irrigation. Features include loans available up to 85% of the unit with a maximum repayment period of 5 years. For financing, up to Rs 10 lakh, the turnaround is 7 business days; above Rs 10 lakh, it is 14 business days. The maximum quantum of finance is Rs 25 lakh per borrower.
Bringing Technology to the Fields: The Namo Drone Didi Yojana and Kisan Drone Scheme The Namo Drone Didi Yojana and the Kisan Drone Scheme (Akashdoot) are efforts by the Indian government to make farming smarter and easier. These programs are all about helping farmers use modern tools—especially drones—to  improve the way they work.
The idea is simple: drones can make life easier for farmers.With a drone, a farmer can spray fertilizers and pesticides more evenly and quickly. Drones can also give a real-time look at crops and help create detailed maps of the land. This saves time, cuts costs, and reduces harm to the environment. Thanks to these schemes, more farmers are beginning to shift from old-school methods to high-tech, smart farming. This change means better harvests, more income, and improved food security for everyone.
Challenges: Even though drones sound great, most farmers still don’t use them. Because They’re expensive, They’re tricky to operate,There are many rules and regulations And there are environmental worries, too. These barriers are stopping many farmers from making the switch. This study tries to understand a few key questions:
● Why is cost such a big problem for farmers when it comes to drones?
● What technical problems are farmers facing when using these machines?
● Are government rules too strict or confusing for farmers?
● Is using drones in farming actually good for the environment in the long run?

LITERATURE REVIEW
Other studies show that drones can really help farmers work better and more sustainably. Drones can collect real-time data, help use water and chemicals more carefully, and reduce waste. They also take clear pictures of the land, helping farmers see what their crops need and where to focus. This means less guesswork and more accurate farming, which boosts productivity and helps protect nature. Several studies have emphasized the role of drones in crop monitoring. According to Barve et al. (2024), drones equipped with multispectral cameras provide aerial imagery that aids in assessing crop health and identifying disease symptoms early. Farmers can carry out focused interventions thanks to the proactive decision-making made possible by this realtime data collection before crop damage escalates. Rishikesavan et al. (2024) further highlighted the significance of drones precision farming, where their capacity to perform spot spraying helps minimize excessive chemical use, ensuring both cost savings and environmental benefits.
The advantages of precision spraying have also been widely documented. Nithya et al. (2024) explained that drones significantly enhance spraying efficiency by covering large areas in a short period, making them more effective than traditional ground-based methods. This increased efficiency reduces labor costs and ensures uniform pesticide application. Furthermore, drones contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing the overall chemical footprint. Rishikesavan et al. (2024) argued that precise pesticide and fertilizer application minimizes wastage and prevents excessive runoff, thereby mitigating the negative ecological impacts associated with conventional spraying techniques. Despite these promising advantages, researchers have identified several challenges that hinder widespread drone adoption in agriculture. Nithya et al. (2024) points out that limited battery life restricts operational time, necessitating frequent recharging and reducing overall efficiency. Additionally, regulatory hurdles remain a significant concern, with complex legal frameworks governing drone usage in many countries. Guebsi et al. (2024) discusses the need for trained personnel, emphasizing that the effective deployment of drones requires technical expertise, which many farmers currently lack. Why Government Support is Needed Farmers face many challenges in using drones especially the cost, lack of training, and unclear rules. This shows how important it is for the government to step in with better policies. Support like training programs, easier rules, and financial help can make drones more accessible to farmers.
Research clearly shows that drones can change the way farming is done. They can help farmers grow more, spend less, and adopt sustainable methods. But for drones to be widely used, we need to solve the current problems like improving their performance, making batteries last longer, and simplifying the rules.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
This research used a mix of methods: Surveys were done with farmers and other stakeholders to understand how drones are being used, what benefits they bring, and what challenges people are facing. Government and industry reports were also used to support the findings. The surveys show that drones help improve crop health checks and reduce pesticide use. But they also show major roadblocks like high prices and lack of training or technical know-how.

DATA ANALYSIS
More farmers are showing interest in using drones for tasks like crop spraying and monitoring. Drones help check crop health, water levels, and pest problems in real time. But still, many farmers are not ready to switch to drones. The biggest reason is the high upfront cost buying and maintaining drones is expensive. Many also don’t have the skills or support to use them effectively. Many farmers, particularly small and medium- scale cultivators, find the investment prohibitive. Even though drones can make a big difference in farming, many farmers still don’t use them.
One major reason is the lack of knowledge and training most farmers simply haven’t been taught how to operate drones. There aren’t enough training centers or support systems in place to bridge that gap.
Government regulations add to the challenge. The rules about using drones in agriculture are often unclear or overly complicated, which leaves farmers unsure about what they’re allowed to do. This uncertainty makes many of them hesitant to try something new.
On top of that, some farmers just don’t see the need. They’re comfortable with their current ways of working and may not fully understand how drones could make their jobs easier, more efficient, or more profitable. But for those who have used drones, the results are encouraging. Drones are already starting to make a real difference in farming. Many farmers who’ve tried them say they’re getting better crop yields and that their day-to-day work has become smoother.
One major benefit is how closely they can monitor crops. If there’s a problem like pests or disease they can catch it early and act fast. Another big plus is targeted spraying. Instead of spraying an entire field, drones only treat the spots that need it. This means fewer chemicals are used, which saves money and helps protect the environment.Drones are expensive upfront, but many farmers feel the long-term benefits make it worth the price. They reduce the need for manual labour, cut down on waste, and help avoid crop losses caused by unnoticed problems.
But some farmers are still unsure. They’re worried about the ongoing costs, maintenance, and whether they’ll really get enough value out of the technology. Short battery life is another issue drones often need recharging or battery swaps in the middle of a task, which slows things down. There’s also the challenge of getting started. Without proper support or guidance, many farmers feel unsure about how to use drones effectively. But things could be different if the government stepped in with stronger support. Most farmers say they would be willing to use drones if there were subsidies, easier rules, and training programs to help them learn. The key is making sure farmers feel supported not just when buying drones, but throughout the learning process.
To make this work at scale, the government could
● Offer financial help like subsidies or low-interest loans
● Set up training programs that reach farmers even in small villages
● Simplify the rules for drone usage
● Provide access to affordable drone services
Collaboration is crucial. If drone manufacturers, agricultural experts, and government agencies work together, they can raise awareness, provide hands-on help, and build trust in the technology. Ultimately, making drones affordable, simplifying regulations, and educating farmers are the three big steps that can push drone farming forward.
Bringing drones to Indian agriculture is a complex journey shaped by cost, technology, government policy, and environmental concerns. But if done appropriately, drones can help make farming not just easier but smarter, more sustainable, and more profitable for farmers across the country.
Studies show that high upfront investment and ongoing maintenance make it tough for these farmers to even consider the switch. Most of them own small plots, often under one hectare, so it’s harder for them to see the benefit of spending so much. Add to that the cost of upkeep and data processing, and the challenge grows even bigger. Managing drone software, storing and analysing crop data, and repairing or replacing parts can all be difficult especially for small-scale farmers with limited resources.
Another hurdle is access to credit. Many farmers already struggle to get loans, so investing in advanced tools like drones feels out of reach. There’s also a social aspect. In some areas, people worry that machines will replace jobs, which makes them hesitant to accept new technologies. Technical limitations are another concern. Most drones can’t carry large loads of fertilizer or pesticide, so they have to make several trips back and forth to cover even a mediumsized field. This takes extra time and uses more energy cutting into efficiency. Drones aren’t plug-and-play either. They require skill to use properly. Right now, many farmers don’t have the training they need, and there aren’t enough programs to teach them.
Even when drones collect useful data, farmers need special tools and knowledge to turn that information into actions and most don’t have access to either. Lastly, internet connectivity in rural areas is still a problem. Without it, farmers can’t get real-time updates or process data on the spot, which limits how much drones can help. The current lack of training programs and educational resources means that many farmers are ill-equipped to operate and maintain drone systems effectively.
Data processing and interpretation present additional hurdles. While drones can collect vast amounts of data, converting this information into actionable insights requires advanced analytical tools and expertise, which are often inaccessible to the average farmer.Connectivity issues in rural areas further impede the realtime transmission and processing of data, limiting the possible advantages of drone technology.
The rules around using drones in Indian farming play a big role in how widely they’re adopted. Right now, the system is complicated and confusing. Many farmers and agribusinesses aren’t sure what’s allowed and what’s not. Strict airspace rules and a slow, paperwork-heavy approval process make it difficult and expensive for farmers to get started, which puts many off.
Although the government has taken steps like launching the Kisan Drone initiative there’s still no simple, farmerfriendly system in place. Without clear and easy-to-follow guidelines, it’s hard for drone use to grow on a larger scale.That’s a missed opportunity, because drones can do a lot of good. They help farmers use just the right amount of water, fertilizer, and pesticides cutting down on waste and reducing environmental damage. For example, drones with smart sensors can help manage irrigation more efficiently, saving huge amounts of water. And with water scarcity being such a big issue in India, this kind of technology could make a real difference. However, environmental challenges persist.
Drone manufacturing, use, and disposal include material and energy consumption, contributing to the environmental footprint. Additionally, the potential for drones to disturb wildlife and disrupt local ecosystems necessitates careful consideration and the development of guidelines to mitigate such impacts. Balancing technological advancement with ecological preservation is crucial for the sustainable implementation of drone technology in agriculture. The adoption of Drone technology has enormous potential to improve sustainability, efficiency, and productivity in Indian agriculture. But addressing the financial, technical, regulatory, and environmental challenges is imperative to fully realize this potential. Collaborative efforts involving policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the farming community are essential to develop supportive frameworks, provide training and resources, and create an enabling environment for Drone incorporation into India’s agricultural landscape.Government Initiatives Driving Drone Adoption in Indian Agriculture Although there is a lot of promise for drone technology integration in Indian agriculture, adoption is still in itsinfancy, navigating various economic, technical, and regulatory hurdles. While drones hold the promise ofrevolutionizing agricultural productivity, efficiency, and sustainability, their widespread deployment depends on overcoming key challenges and leveraging targeted government interventions.
To accelerate drone adoption, The Indian government haslaunched several projects. A financial push of Rs. 120 crore (US$14.39 million) is provided via the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to encourage domestic drone manufacturing and lessen reliance on imports. To help farmers adopt drone technology, the government has rolled out several support schemes aimed at making drones more affordable and accessible.
One of the key programs is the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM). Under this scheme, farmers can get financial aid to buy drones for their fields. So far, more than 240 drones have already been subsidized through the Kisan Drone Scheme, and there are plans to set up over 1,500 Kisan Drone Community Health Centres (CHCs) across the country. These centres will make it easier for farmers to access drone services and reduce their costs while improving efficiency. To encourage innovation, the Drone Shakti Scheme is also in place. This initiative supports startups and promotes the use of drones across different sectors not just agriculture. It’s helping position India as a leader in drone tech by funding research and supporting new businesses that can solve realworld problems.
On the policy side, the government has made drone usesimpler and more accessible. The introduction of the Drone Rules, 2021 removed many of the older, complicated regulations. Now, using and registering drones is a more straightforward process. The Digital Sky Platform also plays a big role here. It helps manage airspace for drones and makes it easier for users to get the necessary approvals and permits online.
To boost local manufacturing and reduce dependency on imports, the government has also restricted drone imports. This move is helping to grow the homegrown drone industry, making India more self-reliant in this space.
Another standout initiative is the Namo Drone Didi Yojana, which focuses on empowering rural women. Through SelfHelp Groups (SHGs) and Cluster Level Federations (CLFs) under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAYNRLM), women are being trained and supported to run drone-based businesses. This not only increases their income but also promotes financial independence and creates jobs in villages bringing both technology and opportunity to the grassroots level. The scheme promotes the use of nano- fertilizers and optimizes pesticide and fertilizer applications, making agriculture more sustainable.
Backed by a Rs. 1,261 crore allocation under the Central Sector Scheme, 15,000 drones will be provided to women SHGs. Financial assistance includes an 80% subsidy on drone packages (up to Rs. 8 lakhs per SHG) and a 3% interest subvention for loans under the Agri Infra Financing Facility (AIF). To make drone adoption more flexible and accessible, Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Cluster Level Federations (CLFs) can also tap into additional loans from other schemes under the Ministry of Rural Development or from their own CLF funds. This added financial support gives rural communities more options to invest in drone technology without a heavy upfront burden.
But access to drones is just one part of the story. Making sure they’re used effectively is just as important. That’s why the Namo Drone Didi Yojana includes a structured training program. Women selected under the scheme receive 15 days of training, which includes:
● 5 days of drone pilot training
● 10 days focused on the safe and efficient use of fertilizers and pesticides
In addition, there’s a 5-day program for Drone Assistants, who are trained to support drone operations on the ground ensuring smooth functioning and wider reach within communities. The program is coordinated by seven Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs), who act as state-level implementation partners. Their job is to monitor progress, provide onground support, and ensure that the scheme is properly rolled out in each region.
This approach doesn’t just stop at drone ownership. It has a ripple effect: farming becomes more efficient, crop health improves, yields increase, and overall input costs are reduced. It’s a win-win for both productivity and sustainability. Another major initiative is the Kisan Drone Scheme –Akashdoot, which helps farmers purchase drones for a variety of agricultural needs like
● Spraying pesticides and fertilizers
● Land mapping and crop monitoring
● Irrigation planning and management
To make this possible, the scheme offers attractive loan options, covering up to 85% of the total drone cost. This includes the cost of accessories, insurance, and annual maintenance contracts (AMCs). Farmers benefit from:
● Low interest rates
● Arepayment period of up to five years
● A six-month grace period (moratorium) before they need to start paying the loan back With a maximum financing limit of ₹10 lakh, this scheme makes owning a drone much more realistic for both individual farmers and farmer groups.With a maximum financing limit of Rs. 25 lakh per borrower, the scheme supports individuals, SHGs, proprietorships, partnership firms, companies, cooperative societies, and FPCs (Farmer Producer Companies) and FPOs (Farmer Producer Organizations). Applicants must provide essential documentation, including KYC details, quotations, project reports, statutory permissions, and collateral security (if applicable). This initiative simplifies access to drone technology, enabling broader adoption across India’s agricultural landscape.
The Indian government’s proactive measures highlight a strong commitment to integrating drones into agriculture. While economic barriers, technical challenges, and regulatory hurdles persist, the combination of financial incentives, policy reforms, and skill development programs is shaping a more conducive ecosystem for drone adoption. Continued efforts in innovation, infrastructure development, and regulatory streamlining will be crucial in ensuring that drone technology reaches its full potential in transforming Indian agriculture.

RESULTS & DISCUSSION
The survey results highlight a mixed response towards the adoption of drones in Indian agriculture. While a significant portion of farmers and agribusinesses have acknowledged the potential advantages of drones for precision spraying and agricultural monitoring, adoption remains limited due to economic, technical, and regulatory constraints. The findings suggest that while drones can enhance efficiency, reduce input costs, and improve sustainability, their widespread implementation faces several challenges that must be addressed for broader integration into farming practices.
The high initial cost of drones is a major deterrent to adoption, cited as the most significant challenge by farmers. The cost of purchasing, maintaining, and it is prohibitive to operate drones, particularly for small and medium-sized farmers, who make up the majority of India’s agricultural workforce. Even though drones have shown long-term cost benefits by optimizing resource utilization, the immediate financial burden outweighs these perceived advantages. The survey also suggests that if financial assistance, such as subsidies or low-interest loans, were made available, a large percentage of farmers would be willing to adopt drone technology. This indicates a strong demand for government intervention in making drone technology more accessible.
Technical challenges also play a crucial role in limiting drone adoption. The survey indicates that limited battery life and payload capacity are major constraints, affecting the efficiency of drone operations. Battery limitations require frequent recharging, disrupting continuous field operations, while payload constraints limit the quantity of pesticides or fertilizers a drone can carry, necessitating multiple rounds of application. Additionally, many farmers lack the technical expertise required to operate drones effectively. Despite increasing demand for AI- powered drones, their successful implementation requires adequate training and education, which remain lacking in many rural areas. The need for wellstructured training programs is becoming increasingly clear. Farmers need more than just access to drones—they need to understand how to use them effectively. One way to achieve this is through collaborations with agricultural universities and government agencies that can provide expert-led, hands-on training across rural regions.
But training isn’t the only hurdle. Many farmers are discouraged by the regulatory barriers around drone usage. According to recent surveys, the legal framework for using drones in Indian agriculture is often seen as confusing and hard to navigate. While schemes like the Kisan Drone Initiative are designed to promote drone adoption, slow and complicated approval processes, along with strict airspace regulations, are turning farmers away from investing in the technology.
The findings suggest that if rules were clearer and approvals were faster and simpler, more farmers would be willing to take the leap. A streamlined regulatory framework could make a big difference in speeding up drone adoption in Indian farming. Even with these barriers, the farmers who have adopted drones are seeing clear benefits. Many report a noticeable boost in productivity, especially when using drones for crop monitoring. By spotting pests, diseases, or nutrient problems early, they can take action before things get out of hand leading to better yields.
Precision spraying is another area showing strong results. Some farmers have reported a reduction of up to 40% in pesticide use, thanks to more targeted and efficient application. This not only saves money but also reduces the environmental impact, helping shift toward more sustainable farming practices. The survey paints a clear picture: drones can transform agriculture, but only if we tackle the key challenges standing in the way cost, complexity, and regulation.

SUGGESTIONS
Subsidized Drone Leasing forSmall Farmers 
High upfront costs are one of the biggest barriers to drone adoption. One solution is to introduce leasing programs through the government or cooperatives, where small and marginal farmers can rent drones at subsidized rates. This makes drone technology more affordable and widely accessible without requiring heavy investment.
AI-Driven Pest and Disease Detection By combining drones with artificial intelligence (AI), farmers can detect issues like pest attacks or diseases early. Drones equipped with AI can process aerial images and give real-time, actionable insights. This helps reduce pesticide overuse and boosts yield management by focusing on treatments only where they’re needed.
Battery and Payload Optimization Research
Many drones currently have limited battery life and can only carry small amounts of fertilizer or pesticide. Investing in research and development to improve battery performance and payload capacity would make drones far more effective and reliable for day-to-day farm tasks.
Encouraging research and development in drone battery technology and lightweight payload systems will enhance their effectiveness in large- scale farming.
1. Tracking Environmental Impact Drones can help monitor how farming practices affect the environment. By regularly checking soil health and water quality, they can show whether pesticides or fertilizers are causing harm. This kind of data is useful for creating farming methods that are eco-friendlier and more sustainable.
2. Better Weather Awareness With built-in weather sensors, drones can collect real-time climate data. This helps farmers prepare for storms, droughts, or sudden weather changes. Getting early warnings means they can take action to protect their crops and avoid heavy losses.
3. Looking Below the Surface Some drones come with LiDAR technology, which lets them “see” underground. They can track root development and measure how much moisture is in the soil below the surface. This gives farmers a deeper understanding of crop health literally and helps improve soil and water management.
4. Smart Weed Control Using AI, drones can spot weeds in the middle of crop fields and spray herbicides only where needed. This targeted approach saves money, uses fewer chemicals, and causes less harm to the environment.
5. Making Drones More Affordable Many farmers can’t afford drones upfront. One solution is to offer small loans or “Buy Now, Pay Later” plans through fintech and agritech partnerships. These flexible payment options often with low or no interest make it easier for farmers to own and use drones without financial strain.

CONCLUSION
Drone technology usage in Indian agriculture presents immense potential but is hindered by economic, technical, and regulatory challenges. While primary data from farmers and agribusinesses highlights concerns over high costs, limited technical expertise, and regulatory uncertainty, it also reflects growing interest in drones for improving efficiency, precision spraying, and resource optimization. Secondary data supports these findings, emphasizing the role of government initiatives such as the Namo Drone Didi and Kisan Drone Scheme in promoting accessibility through subsidies and financial assistance. However, barriers such as battery limitations, training gaps, and fragmented policies continue to restrict widespread adoption. Addressing these challenges through targeted policy reforms, structured training programs, and to fully utilize drone technology, financial incentives will be essential. With continued investment in AI-driven analytics, IoT integration, and regulatory streamlining, drones can significantly contribute to sustainable and precision agriculture, driving long-term productivity and environmental benefits.

REFERENCES
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