"Garuda Aerospace Lands Orders for 500 Kisan Drones Through NaMo Drone Didi Initiative"

In a significant development, Chennai-based drone company Garuda Aerospace has clinched a substantial order for a total of 500 Garuda Kisan Drones valued at approximately ₹20 crore. These orders have been placed by ten prominent fertilizer companies as part of the NaMo Drone Didi initiative.

The fertiliser companies involved in the procurement include National Fertilizers Limited, Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers, The Fertilisers and Chemicals Travancore, Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Limited, KRIBHCO Fertilizers, Gujarat State Fertilizers & Chemicals, Brahmaputra Valley Fertilizer Corporation, Matix Fertilizers & Chemicals, Paradeep Phosphates, and Mangalore Chemicals and Fertilizers.

According to a company spokesperson, the drones will be allocated to self-help groups under the NaMo Drone Didi Initiative specifically for the purpose of fertiliser and pesticide spraying. Notably, the Garuda Kisan Drones are equipped with advanced features including Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and GPS sensors, providing farmers with precise and real-time information about their crops and fields.

These drones not only enhance precision in spraying but also contribute to a reduction in pesticide usage and minimize farmers' exposure to harmful chemicals. Additionally, they are designed to conserve water and cover vast agricultural areas in significantly less time. Garuda Kisan Drones are projected to increase crop yield by up to 60% while simultaneously reducing crop losses by 20%, as per a company release.

Launched in December 2023, the NaMo Drone Didi scheme aims to empower women as key participants in local farming supply chains and rural prosperity. Since its inception, Garuda Aerospace has trained over 185 rural women under this initiative.

Garuda Aerospace, backed by renowned cricketer MS Dhoni who serves as both an investor and brand ambassador, recently secured ₹25 crore in a bridge round in October 2023. The company is currently gearing up for its Initial Public Offering (IPO) slated for 2024, as announced in a press release.

HBL