How Drone Didis Of India Are Poised To Become Beacons Of Empowerment

India is witnessing a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering rural women through the NAMO Drone Didi Scheme. Launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in November, this scheme has equipped hundreds of women in various states with the skills to operate drones, transforming them into 'Drone Didis' or drone pilots as per the Times of India report.

These women are set to revolutionise agriculture by using drones to spray fertilizers and pesticides in fields across their districts.

Training and Vision Behind the 'Drone Didis'

The NAMO Drone Didi Scheme was executed following Prime Minister Modi's Independence Day speech, where he announced plans to train a minimum of 15,000 women as drone pilots. The primary objective is to reduce labour costs, save time and water, and empower women in rural areas. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to create two crore Lakhpati Didis, women from rural areas earning in lakhs, through self-help groups (SHGs).

Women from diverse backgrounds and educational qualifications have embraced the opportunity to become 'Drone Didis.' Organisations associated with the agricultural sector at the village level, such as Grant Thornton Bharat and Farmer Producers Organisation (FPO), played a crucial role in identifying and connecting these women with the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO).

Overcoming Challenges in Training

The selection process involved interviews to assess the candidates' basic knowledge of farming. Once selected, the women underwent theory classes, a challenge for those with limited educational backgrounds. Kiranpal Kaur, a trained drone pilot from Punjab, shared her experience of overcoming language barriers during training. The trainers, she noted, were supportive, translating materials into Hindi and Punjabi, ensuring everyone could grasp the essential concepts.

The 'Drone Didis' are not only gaining new skills but also changing their lives. Gurinder Kaur from Ludhiana expressed her excitement about the project and her husband's innovative plans to the Times of India. Zeenat Sharma, a postgraduate in microbiology from Himachal Pradesh, highlighted the determination of rural women and the inspirational atmosphere during the training, reported by The Indian Express.

Economic Impact and Financial Independence

As per estimates from IFFCO, these 'Drone Didis' could potentially earn at least Rs 7 lakh per annum, even with part-time work. Charging farmers Rs 300 per acre or more for their services, these women are set to make a significant impact on agricultural practices. IFFCO is providing drones and e-vehicles free of cost, a move that significantly reduces the financial burden on the women involved.

The 'Drone Didis' are poised to transform the agricultural landscape, travelling across their districts in e-vehicles, flying drones to spray fertilizers and pesticides. With the potential to benefit not only themselves but also the farming community and the nation's economy, these empowered women represent a vision of progress and gender inclusivity.

The NAMO Drone Didi Scheme stands as a testament to India's commitment to women's empowerment and technological advancement. These 'Drone Didis' are not just pilots; they are pioneers ushering in a new era of sustainable and efficient farming practices across the country.