IIT Mandi Launches 'Drone Didi' Initiative, Empowers Women in Himachal Pradesh

In a revolutionary move for Indian agriculture, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Mandi, has launched "Drone Didi," an innovative skill development program aimed at empowering women in Himachal Pradesh through training in operating drones for agricultural purposes. This initiative aims to create opportunities for women to become leaders and entrepreneurs in the field.

The program, supported by the Agriculture Skill Council of India, is currently in progress with the first batch of 20 female students on the IIT Mandi campus. The comprehensive three-month residential training regimen covers various aspects of drone operations, providing hands-on experience to participants.

The goal is to equip women with the skills to become proficient 'kisan drone operators' and potential entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector. The institute's Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR) provides technical support and even on-the-job opportunities for these aspiring "Drone Didis."

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Somjit Amrit, the CEO of IIT Mandi i-Hub, states that the primary goal of the initiative is to revolutionize agricultural methods by combining skill development with drone technology. The adoption of agricultural drones is anticipated to result in time savings, decreased reliance on pesticides, and a favorable influence on human health. Additionally, considering Himachal Pradesh's reputation for fruit production, the role of a kisan drone operator holds significant relevance, presenting the opportunity to create multiple employment avenues and promote entrepreneurship.

Participants like Shashi Bala, who holds a background in B.Sc (Agriculture), expressed their enthusiasm for the program, highlighting the valuable skills acquired, including drone applications, maintenance, DGCA guidelines, agri-drone applications, business skills, and soft skills.

Komal Thakur, an electrical engineer from a farmer's family, emphasized the program's assistance in learning about pesticide spraying for their village's tomato and apple crops.

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The visionary initiative caught the attention of President Droupadi Mumru, who commended the efforts to empower women in agriculture through drone automation.

President Mumru highlighted the transformative nature of the initiative, leveraging technology to create a more inclusive and equitable agricultural terrain. Integrating women into this pivotal sector ensures a diversified and skilled workforce, contributing significantly to the growth and sustainability of agricultural practices.

The program's vision extends beyond regional boundaries, with plans to expand nationally, aiming to enduring impact on women's empowerment, agricultural methodologies, and entrepreneurial endeavors across India.

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