Tripura Minister Ratan Lal Nath Introduces Drone Technology for Agriculture

Tripura Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath announced that drone technology will soon be integrated into the state’s agriculture sector to address various challenges. Women’s self-help groups (SHGs) will receive training to operate drones for tasks such as spraying fertilizers and pesticides in fruit and flower gardens.

Drone Didi Scheme

The central government has launched the ‘Drone Didi’ scheme, specifically for women. Following the scheme’s launch, a state committee was formed to oversee its implementation. Drones will be distributed to agriculture sub-divisions based on the committee’s recommendations. Trainers have already been appointed to train SHG members, and drones are expected to reach all 47 agri-subdivisions within the next two months.

Krishi Sakhis Initiative

Minister Nath also announced a special scheme to appoint ‘Krishi Sakhis’ (Friends of Farmers) who will provide agriculture-related solutions to farmers in rural areas. One ‘Sakhi’ will be appointed for each rural local body, such as Gram Panchayats and Village Committees. A proposal for this initiative has been forwarded to the central government for approval.

New Agricultural Infrastructure

During the inauguration of the new Agriculture Development Research and Training Centre in Killa, Gomati district, Nath highlighted the establishment of new infrastructure in all agri-subdivisions. The new training center will host officials, trainers, and experts who will interact with farmers. Video conferencing facilities have also been arranged.