Tamil Nadu unveils drone training scheme for women farmers

The Tamil Nadu government on Thursday announced the launch of the ‘Vetri Vaanmagal’ scheme to train women farmers in operating agricultural drones, as part of efforts to promote technology-driven farming and create new employment opportunities for women in the rural economy.

Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister R. Vinoth unveiled the initiative while presenting the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government’s first Agriculture Budget for 2026-27 in the Legislative



Assembly.

Under the programme, 500 eligible candidates, including 100 women, will receive professional training in drone operations and assistance to obtain drone pilot licences.

The state government has earmarked Rs 1.50 crore to meet the cost of the training. The training will be conducted through the Remote Pilot Training Organisation of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), enabling participants to acquire the technical skills and certification required to operate drones.