Panel discussion on “The Impact of Drone Didi Initiative on Rural Masses” was held, highlighting the flagship program’s role in empowering women and improving farming through drone technology.
The event, highlighted the Government of India’s Nari Shakti, Viksit Bharat program, aimed to raise awareness among rural masses, particularly women. Renowned experts Dr. Mukesh Jain, Director, NRFMTTI, Hisar, Mr. Sanjeev Randeva, GM (HR & Marketing), National Fertilizer Limited (NFL), and Dr. Shankar Goenka, Managing Director, WOW Go Green LLP, shared their insights.
Dr. Mukesh Jain emphasized the significance of drone technology in agriculture, while Mr. Sanjeev Randeva highlighted NFL’s contributions to rural development. Dr. Shankar Goenka moderated the discussion, focusing on effective implementation strategies.
The Media Interaction shed light on the transformative journeys of two inspiring Drone Didis from Bhatinda and Barnala, who shared their experiences of entering the world of drone technology. Ms. Rekha Rani from Barnala expressed her newfound confidence after completing the comprehensive training program, which equipped her with technical skills and a sense of empowerment that significantly contributes to her family management.
With the peak crop season, Ms. Jasbir Kaur from Bhatinda revealed that their earnings have soared to an impressive Rs 5,000 per day. Even during the lean season, they have secured a respectable income of Rs 3,000 per day. This economic stability has inspired them to take on a mentorship role, motivating other women in their village to pursue similar training opportunities.
Ms. Rekha Rani from Barnala Village expressed gratitude towards the government for initiating programs that empower rural women through training and skill development. She emphasized how these opportunities have allowed them to engage meaningfully and create additional sources of income for their families.
The Drone Didi initiative is part of the NaMo Drone Didi Scheme, launched in November 2023, aiming to empower 15,000 women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) with drones to assist in agricultural activities. The program has shown positive results, with women like Jasbir Kaur and Rekha Rani.
Key Highlights of the Drone Didi Initiative:
– Empowerment through Technology : Drone technology enhances farming efficiency and productivity, providing women with a sense of empowerment and contribution to their families.
– Economic Stability : Drone Didis can earn up to Rs 5,000 per day during peak seasons and Rs 3,000 per day during lean seasons.
– Mentorship and Community Spirit : Successful Drone Didis are inspiring and mentoring other women in their villages to pursue similar training opportunities.
– Government Support : The government has initiated programs to provide training and skill development, creating additional sources of income for rural women.
The stories of these Drone Didis serve as a powerful reminder of the resilience and potential that exist within rural communities, waiting to be unlocked through training and support. By equipping them with the right skills and resources, these women are transforming their own lives and paving the way for future generations to thrive in the field of technology.
The Drone Didi initiative owes its success to visionary entrepreneurs like Dr. Shankar Goenka, who brought drones to rural masses at economical prices and in record time. As a pioneering entrepreneur, Dr. Goenka left his family business to establish WOW Factors, driven by a passion for innovation and sustainability. His emphasis on Agri-Tech and sustainable farming practices has been instrumental in transforming the agricultural landscape.
Under Dr. Goenka’s leadership, WOW Factors has made drones accessible to rural women, enabling them to enhance farming efficiency and productivity. The initiative’s impact is evident in the stories of Drone Didis like Ms. Rekha Rani and Ms. Jasbir Kaur, who have gained technical skills, economic stability, and a sense of empowerment. Dr. Goenka’s innovative approach and commitment to sustainability have made a tangible difference in the lives of rural women, paving the way for future generations to thrive in the field of technology. Proceeding of the program were coordinated by Shri G.S. Bawa , Former GM(PR), Airports Authority of India .
