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Shifting Monsoon Rains Strain Kharif Harvests
The current kharif season faces deep disruptions due to a highly unpredictable monsoon. Early dry spells leave vast agricultural lands parched, severely delaying initial crop planting. While a subsequent mid-season revival helps farmers catch up on sowing coverage, the extreme shift between drought and heavy downpours causes structural damage to the fields. Rain-fed staples like pulses and oilseeds bear the brunt of the initial dry spell, forcing a heavier reliance on foreign imports to stabilize local supply. Meanwhile, cash crops like sugarcane face prolonged regional moisture disparities, prompting extended trade restrictions. Ultimately, these sudden weather swings trigger widespread nutrient washouts and heightened pest outbreaks. Because final crop yields rely on stable late-season moisture, overall agricultural output remains highly vulnerable despite the late recovery in planted areas.
“Bring diversity back to agriculture. That’s what made it work in the first place”.
– David R. Brower
FEATURE STORY
Namo Drone Didi — When Rural Women Take Flight
Imagine a woman from a small village, operating a drone over farmland — spraying fertilizers with precision, earning a steady income, and transforming how farming works in her community. That’s exactly what the Drone Didi Scheme is making possible across India.
The Government of India has set aside ₹1,261 crore to put 15,000 drones in the hands of Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) — the same grassroots groups that have quietly been building financial independence for rural women across the country.
Who can join? Any woman above 18 years, with a Class 10 pass certificate, enrolled in a DAY-NRLM registered SHG. That’s it.
What does it cost her? Very little. The government covers 80% of the drone cost — up to ₹8 lakh — and the remaining amount can be borrowed at just 3% interest. The 15-day training covering drone flying and crop spraying? Completely free.
For farmers, it means healthier crops, smarter use of fertilizers and pesticides, and lower costs. For the women operating these drones, it means a real business and a real income.
One drone. One woman. Endless possibilities.
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