Among the emerging tools from farming in India, drones have sparked considerable interest due to their potential to save time, reduce costs, and improve crop management. 

For small to medium-sized farms, entry-level drones offer basic functionalities like crop monitoring and low-resolution imaging. 

These drones are priced between ₹5 lakhs to ₹25 lakhs, making them accessible for farmers looking to adopt drone technology without substantial investment. 

If you’re looking for options that fit a budget but still deliver useful results, understanding the drones in agriculture prices and what to expect from low-cost models matters.

This blog explores the prices of drones in agriculture and everything you need to know about agricultural drones in India, focusing on affordable options.

Exploring Cheapest Agriculture Drones in India

While premium drones with advanced sensors and heavy payloads cost a lot, some budget-friendly models offer entry points into drone farming. 

Agricultural drone costs in India vary widely based on features, build quality, spraying capacity, and brand. Prices fluctuate depending on sellers, import duties, and customisations.

Leher’s Hexacopter: Cheapest Agricultural Drone in India

Choosing a drone for farm spraying often comes down to price, coverage per charge, and ease of use. While many options in the market claim high performance, most can only cover 2 to 3 acres per battery charge. 

This means more stops, extra batteries, and more time spent refilling and restarting.

How Leher’s Spraying Drone Stacks Up Against Others in India:

Technical Specifications of Leher’s Drones

Leher’s drones are built for durability, precision, and field efficiency. With a 10-litre payload, 22-minute flight time, and safety features like auto-return, they’re made to handle real farm conditions.

Most farmers we speak with don’t want fancy features, they want something that works, lasts, and gets the job done faster. That’s what our drone is made for.

What are the Benefits of Using Leher’s Drones?

Leher offers a drone spraying service tailored to the needs of Indian farmers, serving small farms, large estates, and agri-businesses. 

With over 35,000 acres sprayed and a growing network of drone pilots and partners, Leher gets accurate spraying done, whether you're growing tea, rubber, paddy, or vegetables.

• Covers More in Less Time: Leher drones spray up to 6 acres in a single charge and over 15 hectares in a day. In tea and rubber plantations, this has replaced the need for multiple manual workers, cutting spraying time drastically without affecting quality.

• Better Use of Inputs, Less Wastage: Each spray operation uses real-time area mapping and flow sensors to ensure the right amount of chemical reaches the crop. This reduces overuse and lowers residue; tea estates have reported up to 75% less chemical residue per kg of tea.

• Simple to Use and Pay: Booking is done through the Leher App or WhatsApp. A trained pilot sprays the field, and payment is made only after the job is done. No prepayment or complex setup needed.

• Strong Hardware, Designed for Indian Fields: Each drone carries up to 10 litres, runs for 22 minutes per charge, and sprays with four fogger nozzles. Safety features like auto-return on low battery or signal loss keep operations stable.

• Track Everything from One Dashboard: Farmers and partners can view spray history, inputs used, payment logs, and pilot activity from a single digital dashboard. It’s all recorded and accessible at any time.

With high area coverage, reduced chemical waste, and field-proven results in crops like tea and rubber, it’s a practical choice for farmers looking to cut costs and save time. The tools are ready. The team is local. And the process is simple.

Not Sure Which Drone to Buy?

Leher helps you choose the right drone based on your farm size, crop type, and spraying needs, so you don’t have to decide alone.

Call Now: +91-9996070333

Using drone spraying with Leher is straightforward. You book through the app, our pilot arrives and sprays your crops, and you pay only after the work is complete. A clear, step-by-step process that saves time on the field.

Download the Leher App from Google Play or Apple Store today.

Other Agriculture Drone Brands and Models

In India, you will find several brands and models offering budget options for agricultural use. Some notable mentions include:

What is an Agriculture Drone?

Agriculture drones are unmanned aerial vehicles designed for farming tasks. These machines can fly over fields, capturing images, spraying pesticides or fertilisers, and collecting data on crop health. 

Unlike recreational drones, agricultural drones have specific features like longer flight times, payload capacity for spraying, and sensors tailored for agriculture.

You can deploy these drones to:

• Monitor crop health using multispectral or thermal cameras.

• Spray pesticides and fertilisers precisely.

• Map and survey large farm areas quickly.

• Collect data to support decision-making on irrigation, fertilisation, and pest control.

Using drones means you spend less time walking fields and more time acting on detailed information.

Why Choose Agriculture Drones?

Drones in farming offer several advantages that can outweigh the initial cost. Leher’s drone spraying is significantly faster than traditional methods. 

• Boost Crop Yields by Up to 30%: Farmers using drone-guided precision agriculture techniques have reported yield increases of up to 30%. This improvement is achieved by optimising fertilisation and pest management, ensuring that crops receive the right inputs at the right time.

• Save on Fertiliser and Pesticide Costs: Drones provide uniform coverage and precise application, reducing fertiliser waste by up to 40%. This precision not only cuts down on input costs but also minimises environmental impact.

• Time and Labour Efficiency: Drone spraying is significantly faster than traditional methods. A drone can spray one acre in just 5 to 10 minutes, compared to the much longer time required for manual spraying. This efficiency translates to a 30-50% reduction in labour expenses.

• Environmental Sustainability: Leher's drone spraying services promote sustainable farming by reducing pesticide usage by up to 30% and water usage by up to 90%. This precise application lessens environmental runoff and soil degradation, contributing to healthier ecosystems.

• Improved Safety for Farmers: Using drones for spraying removes the need for farmers to handle hazardous chemicals directly, reducing exposure to harmful substances and enhancing overall safety on the farm.

With Leher’s drone spraying services, you no longer need to walk through fields carrying heavy tanks or worry about inhaling harmful fumes. Our drones are built to do the job safely, quickly, and precisely, while you monitor everything from your phone. 

Even if you have a tight budget, investing in an agriculture drone can increase your operational efficiency and crop output in the long run.

What are the Features of an Agriculture Drone?

When shopping for drones in agriculture, it’s important to know which features matter. Even low-cost models can offer valuable functions if you focus on:

1. Flight Time

Longer flights let you cover more area.

• Standard Range: 15 to 25 minutes for entry-level drones; 30–40 minutes for advanced models.

• Benefit: A drone with 30+ minutes of flight time can spray 7–10 acres per charge, reducing the need for frequent landings and battery swaps.

• Why It Matters: Fewer interruptions mean faster job completion, especially useful during critical spray windows.

2. Payload Capacity

Ability to carry pesticides or fertilisers.

• Typical Capacities

  • Entry-level: 5–10 litres

  • Mid-range: 10–15 litres

  • Heavy-duty: 20–25 litres

• Benefit: A 20-litre drone can cover up to 2.5 acres per trip, reducing the number of refills.

• Why It Matters: Higher capacity leads to less downtime, saving up to 25% in operational time.

3. Camera Quality: HD or multispectral cameras help assess crop health.

   • Types

     • HD Cameras (720p or 1080p): Good for basic field scouting.

     • Multispectral Cameras: Capture crop stress, disease, and nutrient deficiencies.

   • Benefit: Multispectral data helps reduce fertiliser waste by up to 40% by targeting only stressed zones.

   • Why It Matters: Better data = smarter decisions = higher yields and lower input costs.

4. GPS and Autopilot: Enables automated flight paths and mapping.

   • Function: Allows drones to follow pre-set routes with RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) GPS for centimetre-level accuracy.

   • Benefit: Saves hours of manual operation, ensures uniform spraying, and avoids overlap or missed spots.

   • Why It Matters: Cuts spraying time by up to 50% compared to manual methods.

5. Spraying Mechanism: Pumps and nozzles are designed for precise application.

   • Components: High-pressure pumps, multiple nozzles, and flow sensors.

   • Spray Rate: Adjustable, typically 1–2 litres per minute.

   • Coverage: Up to 5–6 acres per tank fill, depending on drone and crop.

   • Why It Matters: Reduces chemical use by 20–30% while ensuring even coverage.

6. Durability: Protection from dust, water, and rough landings.

   • Build Quality: Industrial drones have IP54–IP67 ratings for water and dust resistance.

   • Design: Foldable arms, reinforced propellers, shock-proof casings.

   • Why It Matters: Withstands rough terrain, reduces repair costs, and lasts longer in Indian field conditions.

Entry-level drones may not have all these features, but can provide basic imaging or spraying functions useful for small farms.

How to Use an Agriculture Drone?

Curious about using a drone on your farm but not sure what’s involved? It’s not just about getting a drone in the air; you’ll need to follow the rules, prep your equipment, and know what you want to achieve. 

If you're aiming to work faster and get clearer results, here's how to start using your drone the right way:

1. Know Local Regulations: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regulates drone use in India. You must register your drone and follow no-fly zones and height limits.

2. Plan Your Flight: Identify the area you want to survey or spray. If the drone supports autopilot, map your route.

3. Prepare the Drone: Charge the batteries, check the nozzles for spraying, and calibrate the sensors.

4. Operate Safely: Fly during clear weather, maintain line of sight, and avoid crowded areas.

5. Analyse Data: Use software to interpret images or spray logs for future decisions.

6. Maintain Equipment: Clean and service your drone regularly to extend its life.

Training yourself or your team in drone operation can improve results and minimise risks.

What are Entry-Level Agriculture Drones?

Entry-level drones are built to cover basic farming needs without the cost or complexity of high-end models. 

They come with fewer features, making them easier to fly and maintain. Many of these models are ready to use immediately and don’t require much training to get started.

These drones usually focus on just one or two tasks, such as:

• Crop Surveillance: Most models include HD cameras for aerial photos and videos, which help you check crop health, pest damage, or water coverage from above.

• Light Spraying Work: Some carry small tanks to spray fertilisers or pesticides on limited areas.

• Simplified Controls: Many entry-level drones have basic GPS features or semi-automatic flight modes, but they still require manual control for most tasks.

Also Read: A Complete Guide on Agriculture Drone- Application & How to Use?

Who Should Consider These Drones?

You might find these models useful if you:

• Run a small or medium-sized farm and don’t need industrial-scale spraying.

• We are just starting out with drone technology and want to learn without a large investment.

• Want a drone mainly for monitoring crops, not heavy spraying or data analysis.

• Prefer lower maintenance costs and a more straightforward setup.

Leher’s Drone-as-a-Service model makes entry-level drone use simple and effective. It offers precision spraying that saves up to 90% of water and cuts pesticide use by 40%. The drone covers more than 50 acres daily with ease, is supported by trained pilots, and uses the latest drone technology with no operational hassles. 

Flexible drone rentals and comprehensive training lower your startup risk, while business support connects you with clients to help your venture grow with Leher.

Book a consultation, explore flexible rentals, and get training, all in one place from Google Play and the Apple Store.

Prices for these drones often range between ₹50,000 and ₹2,00,000. Many Indian-made models or DIY kits fall into this category and are available online and through agricultural tech programs.

What are the Factors Contributing to Low-Cost Drones?

Not all drones in agriculture prices come with a high price tag. Several practical design and manufacturing choices help keep specific models affordable for small and mid-scale farmers. 

Here's what typically drives down the cost:

1. More Straightforward Build

Many budget-friendly drones use fewer rotors, usually four instead of six or eight. They also have lighter frames and smaller motors, reducing both material costs and the power needed to fly.

2. Basic Cameras

Entry-level drones usually come with regular HD or RGB cameras instead of thermal or multispectral cameras. These are good enough for general crop monitoring but not for detailed analysis.

3. Light Payload Capacity

Low-cost drones often carry smaller spray tanks and simpler delivery systems. This limits the spraying area but reduces weight, which cuts battery use and system strain.

4. Manual Controls

Instead of fully automated flight plans, these drones may need more hands-on flying. Some come with basic GPS support or simple autopilot features, but lack advanced route planning or obstacle detection.

5. Local Manufacturing

Drones made or assembled in India often cost less than imported ones. Local supply chains, government support for drone startups, and lower shipping fees help keep prices down.

6. No Heavy Branding

Well-known global drone makers may charge extra for brand reputation, service networks, or added features. Smaller or local brands skip these add-ons, keeping their pricing more accessible.

These factors help keep drone ownership and operation within reach for many first-time users or farmers with smaller plots.

What are the Benefits for Farmers and Entrepreneurs?

Affordable agricultural drones are becoming increasingly accessible to farmers and entrepreneurs in India, offering a range of benefits that enhance productivity and open new income avenues. 

Here's how:

Benefits for Farmers

• Increased Crop Yields: Using drone-enabled precision farming practices can lead to yield increases. This is achieved through accurate monitoring and timely interventions, ensuring optimal crop health.

• Reduced Input Costs: Drones aid in the precise application of fertilisers and pesticides, reducing their usage by approximately 40%. This not only cuts costs but also minimises environmental impact.

• Time and Labour Efficiency: Drones can survey up to 1,000 acres in a single day, a task that would take a field scout significantly longer. This rapid data collection allows for quicker decision-making and reduces labour requirements.

• Early Disease Detection: Equipped with multispectral sensors, drones can detect crop stress and diseases early, enabling prompt treatment and preventing widespread damage

• Access to Government Support: The Indian government offers subsidies covering up to 50% of the drone cost for eligible farmers, making this technology more affordable.

Opportunities for Entrepreneurs

• Service Provision: Entrepreneurs can offer drone services such as spraying, mapping, and monitoring to farmers, creating a new revenue stream. For instance, the 'Drone Didis' initiative aims to select 15,000 women-led SHGs to be trained and assisted through the program through 2026.

• Government Incentives: Under schemes like the National Agriculture Infrastructure Financing Facility (AIF) Fund, entrepreneurs can access loans up to   3% interest subsidy, facilitating business expansion in the agri-tech sector.

• Training and Certification: Programs are available to train individuals in drone operation, providing certifications that enhance credibility and open doors to more business opportunities.

By embracing affordable drone technology, farmers can enhance their agricultural practices, and entrepreneurs can tap into a growing market, contributing to the modernisation and efficiency of Indian agriculture.

How to Maximise Value from Low-Cost Drones?

To get the most from budget drones, you can:

• Use drones primarily for scouting and monitoring if spraying capacity is limited.

• Pair drones with smartphone apps for flight planning and data analysis.

• Regularly maintain your drone to avoid costly repairs.

• Train yourself to fly manually to compensate for a less advanced autopilot.

• Start with small pilot projects before scaling up.

• Collaborate with local agricultural support groups for shared drone access.

With clever use, inexpensive drones can contribute significantly to farm efficiency.

How Does Government Support Make High-Tech Farming More Affordable?

The Government of India has introduced several policies to promote the use of drones in agriculture, aiming to modernise farming practices and enhance productivity. Key initiatives include:

1. Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanisation (SMAM)

Under the SMAM scheme, the government offers subsidies to farmers and agricultural institutions to purchase agricultural drones. The subsidy amounts vary based on the type of farmer and the drone's ownership:

• Cooperative Societies, FPOs, and Rural Entrepreneurs: Up to ₹4 lakh

• Agriculture Graduates: Up to ₹5 lakh

• Small and Marginal Farmers, SC/ST, Women, and North Eastern States Farmers: Up to ₹5 lakh

• Other Farmers: Up to ₹4 lakh

Additionally, grants up to ₹10 lakh are provided to institutions like Krishi Vigyan Kendras and State Agricultural Universities for drone purchases.

2. Namo Drone Didi Scheme

Launched in November 2023, this initiative aims to empower women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) by providing them with drones and training. The government plans to distribute drones to 15,000 SHGs by 2026, with financial support covering up to ₹8 lakh per drone. The program includes structured training to certify women as drone operators.

Also Read: The Best Agriculture Drones for Spraying | Leher

3. Digital Sky Platform

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has developed the Digital Sky Platform, a single-window system for drone registration, permissions, and training. It features an interactive airspace map and standard operating procedures, simplifying the regulatory process for drone operations.

4. Promotion of Indigenous Drone Manufacturing

Aligned with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the government encourages the development and production of drones within India. This policy aims to reduce dependency on foreign imports and boost the domestic drone manufacturing industry.

5. Training and Skill Development

Various state governments and institutions have launched programs to train individuals in drone operations:

• Kerala: The state has initiated advanced drone pilot training programs in collaboration with Anna University and Rajadhani Engineering College. The aim is to prepare youth for employment opportunities in sectors like agriculture and defence.

• Nagpur, Maharashtra: The National Cadet Corps (NCC) unit in Nagpur has been designated as the state's nodal centre for drone training. The initiative includes integrating drone handling into the NCC curriculum, with plans to acquire domestically manufactured drones. 

These policies collectively aim to make drone technology more accessible to farmers, enhance agricultural productivity, and promote self-reliance in the drone manufacturing sector.

Starting Farming with India’s Most Affordable Agriculture Drones – Leher’s Hexacopter

Buying a drone doesn’t have to burn a hole in your pocket. Leher makes drone-based farming possible even on a small budget. It makes drones with smart services and no heavy investments upfront. 

Leher makes farming easier by using drones for precise spraying, reducing waste, and ensuring optimal use of pesticides and fertilisers.

• Drone Partner Program: Expand your business with Leher’s Drone Partner Program. Become a certified operator, get financial support, and connect with farmers who need services to help your business grow. You can also connect with real farmers and get paid per acre for drone spraying, covering up to 50 acres a day.

• Drone Sales & Leasing: Leher offers drones for sale and lease to fit your needs and budget. Whether starting or expanding, you’ll get full support and training to ensure you’re using your drone effectively.

• Simple Booking Process: Booking your drone service is easy with the Leher app or via WhatsApp. Track progress, make payments, and handle everything in one place for a smooth experience.

• Quick Field Coverage: Leher’s drones cover up to 50 acres a day, turning hours of work into just minutes. This speed lets you accomplish more, increasing your operational efficiency.

• Precision Spraying: Leher’s drones apply pesticides and fertilisers exactly where needed, reducing waste and improving crop health. You’ll avoid overspraying and use fewer chemicals, saving money and benefiting the environment.

• Cut Input Costs: Leher's precise drone spraying can save you 20% on pesticides, fertilisers, and water. The drones ensure you only use what’s necessary, cutting unnecessary costs and boosting efficiency.

• Support & Training: Leher offers ongoing support and training to help you get the most from your drone. Whether you're new or experienced, Leher’s team ensures you can confidently operate.

With easy booking, full support, and training, Leher simplifies the process, helping farmers achieve higher yields while cutting costs and promoting sustainability. Our drones cover large areas quickly, saving farmers time and improving efficiency.

Download the Leher app from the Play Store and Apple Store, and schedule a free call with our experts today.