The NaMo Drone Didi Initiative is a progressive government program introduced under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Its primary objective is to empower rural women by providing them with the skills to become drone pilots, specifically for agricultural applications. The initiative aims to equip around 15,000 women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) with advanced agricultural drones, which will support various tasks such as crop monitoring, fertilizer spraying, and seed sowing.
Women who are members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are eligible to participate in this transformative initiative. District authorities, in conjunction with the National Rural Livelihood Mission, are responsible for recommending candidates who will undergo training.
Participants in the program receive comprehensive training at designated centers, covering both practical and theoretical aspects of drone operation, maintenance, and safety. The training structure comprises a five-day dedicated drone training course, followed by a four-day ground training session.
The total cost for the training is approximately Rs 65,000, with an additional Rs 16,000 required for ground training. Initially, these training costs are sponsored by partnering companies, while trainees are responsible for the expenses related to ground training.
Upon successful completion of the training, participants are awarded a Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which legally permits them to operate drones. Additionally, each participant receives a drone, with the central government subsidizing 80 percent of its cost, significantly reducing the financial burden on the trainees.
The primary goal of the NaMo Drone Didi Initiative is to empower rural women by equipping them with a valuable skill set. This initiative aims to enhance agricultural efficiency and productivity, ultimately making agricultural practices less labor-intensive. Furthermore, it supports rural women in achieving greater self-sufficiency.
While the initiative has garnered considerable support, some agriculture policy analysts express concerns that it may predominantly benefit large corporations and primarily contribute to GDP growth rather than genuinely empowering women or improving their financial conditions. This perspective, however, is not universally accepted, as many acknowledge the substantial advantages in terms of skill development and rural empowerment.
Despite some skepticism regarding its impact, the initiative has been well-received by numerous participants and observers. Women who have completed the training express feelings of empowerment and pride in their new capabilities. Moreover, the initiative has garnered praise for challenging traditional stereotypes and expanding the opportunities available to women in rural communities.
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