Empowering Rural Women: The Rise of 'Drone Didi' Aviators in Indian Agriculture

Once a rural housewife, Sharmila Yadav always dreamt of being a pilot. Now, she's living that dream by remotely steering a robust drone above India's scenic farmlands. At 35, Yadav is part of the "drone didis" initiative, where hundreds of women are trained to pilot fertilizer-spraying drones.

This program, backed by the government, aims to modernize Indian farming, cutting labor costs, saving time, and addressing climate change challenges. Beyond agricultural benefits, it reflects a shift in attitudes toward working women in rural India, breaking traditional barriers.

Yadav, a mother of two, spent 16 years as a homemaker in a small hamlet near Pataudi. Opportunities for women were scarce until she joined the program. Now, after spraying 150 acres of farmland, she earns 50,000 rupees, more than double the average monthly income in her state.

For Yadav, this isn't just about income; it's about pride. "I feel very proud when someone calls me a pilot. I have never sat in a plane, but I feel like I am flying one now," she shares.

The initiative, led by the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), provides free drones to trained pilots. Companies beyond IFFCO have joined, aiming to train 15,000 "drone didis" nationwide.

Yogendra Kumar, IFFCO's marketing director, emphasizes the scheme's broader impact on empowerment and rural entrepreneurship. He notes the economic efficiency of drone spraying, using less water and completing tasks in minutes, compared to manual efforts.

The program addresses the gender gap in rural employment. Only 41% of rural Indian women are in the formal workforce, compared to 80% of men. Prime Minister's recent remarks highlight the program's transformative nature.

Enrollment includes an interview, a weeklong theory course, a written test, and a week of practical training. Rifat Ara, a 23-year-old pilot, initially hesitated but found confidence after mastering the skills.

Nisha Bharti, an instructor at Drone Destination training school, witnesses the transformation of nervous newcomers into confident drone pilots. "It is as if they grow wings and want to fly higher and higher," she observes.

The "drone didis" program not only contributes to agriculture but also empowers women, enabling them to stand on their own feet and soar to new heights. Follow our social media for more on Sustainable Agriculture, Climate Change, and Modern Agricultural Techniques enhancing global food security.

The "drone didis" program not only contributes to agriculture but also empowers women, enabling them to stand on their own feet and soar to new heights. Follow our social media for more on Sustainable Agriculture, Climate Change, and Modern Agricultural Techniques enhancing global food security.

We at Precision Grow have initiated an “Agri-Drone Didi Club” focused on providing certified training to women on Flying Agri-Drone and empowering them to create better livelihoods for themselves. If you’re interested in this program do register on the link given below and be a part of the world’s first women-empowered Agri Drone Learning Programme.

https://forms.gle/iUkaHzCFFG9dY3x47