In a landmark step towards modernising agriculture and promoting scientific farming practices, Dhamtari district has become the first district in the country to provide drone-based agricultural services through Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS). The initiative, launched under the guidance of Collector Abinash Mishra, aims to bring advanced agricultural technology directly to farmers through the cooperative network. As part of the project, drone sprayer facilities have been introduced in 10 PACS societies across the district. The programme was formally inaugurated at the Loharsi Cooperative Society, where trained drone pilots from all ten societies demonstrated the operation of drone sprayers before a large gathering of farmers. The live demonstrations showcased the precision application of fertilisers and pesticides using drones, highlighting benefits such as reduced labour requirements, lower operational costs, improved efficiency and better farm management. Addressing the gathering, Collector Mishra described the initiative as a major step towards integrating modern technology with grassroots agriculture. He said drone technology has the potential to transform farming by enabling agricultural operations to be carried out more efficiently, economically and in a time-bound manner.

 

“Our objective is to ensure that every farmer in the district benefits from modern and scientific farming methods, leading to higher productivity and increased income,” he said. He added that the district administration is continuously working to establish Dhamtari as a model district for agricultural innovation and technology-driven development. A unique feature of the project is its partnership with CSC e-Governance Services India Limited. Under this collaboration, PACS societies are being strengthened as Common Service Centres (CSCs), enabling farmers to access a range of digital and government services alongside drone spraying facilities. The initiative is expected to improve technological access in rural areas while transforming cooperative societies into multifunctional service centres. The event was attended by Janpad member Sant Kumari Kiran Sahu, Deputy Director of Agriculture, the Nodal Officer of the District Cooperative Central Bank, authorised officers and managers of the societies, CSC District Manager Vinay Giri, officials from various departments and a large number of farmers.

 

The ten societies equipped with drone sprayer services are Bodra, Loharsi, Donar, Achhota, Kharenga, Bhothidih, Kundel, Garadih, Jugdehi and Kareli. Farmers in these areas will be able to avail themselves of drone services through their respective societies as required. Agricultural experts believe the initiative will accelerate mechanisation, ensure balanced use of agrochemicals, reduce labour costs and create new skill development and employment opportunities for rural youth. The achievement places Dhamtari at the forefront of agricultural innovation and sets a new benchmark for technology-driven farming services in the cooperative sector.