IIT Mandi launches 'Drone Didi' Program for Women in Agri

By: WE Staff | Monday, 5 February 2024

Indian Institute of Technology, Mandi, is launching "Drone Didi" to train women of Himachal Pradesh in agricultural drone usage, aiming to save time, reduce pesticide use, and reduce human health risks. Drone Didi's main objective is to empower women and bring about a paradigm shift in agricultural operations.

The program prepares women to become skilled "kisan drone operators" and opens doors for them to become leaders and entrepreneurs in this industry by integrating skill development with drone technology. Using agricultural drones can significantly cut down on the amount of time needed for activities like pest management, crop monitoring, and surveying. It also results in economical methods.

Drone Didi helps reduce the harmful effects of pesticides on human health by lowering the requirement for pesticide spraying. The position of a kisan drone operator is extremely important in Himachal Pradesh, which is well-known for producing fruit. The program's goal is to provide ambitious women access to career opportunities, including entrepreneurship.

An extensive three-month residential training covering all aspects of drone operations will be provided by the program. Participants would receive practical experience in DGCA rules, agri-drone applications, drone applications, maintenance, business skills, and soft skills. IIT Mandi hopes to reach a nationwide audience with the program.

The institute hopes to develop a competent workforce in this field since it acknowledges the potential of kisan drone operators in different states.