As International Women’s Day highlights women’s achievements, Gurdeep Kaur from Punjab’s Sri Anandpur Sahib stands out for her journey from a villager to a drone pilot known as ‘drone didi’. Through the NaMo Drone Didi Yojana 2024, she now flies drones, provides employment in her village, and promotes modern agricultural technology. Gurdeep Kaur received drone operation training from IFFCO, obtained a drone and a three-wheeler, and now sprays pesticides and fertilizers on farmers’ fields using drones, benefiting from reduced costs and time efficiency.
Gurdeep Kaur’s transition to a drone pilot has not only brought her pride but also inspired other villagers, especially women, to embrace modern farming techniques. The NaMo Drone Didi scheme, aimed at empowering women-led Self-Help Groups, plans to distribute drones to 15,000 selected groups for agricultural services during 2024-2026. This initiative supports farmers by offering drone-based applications for liquid fertilizers and pesticides, thus enhancing agricultural practices and productivity.
Gurdeep Kaur’s story symbolizes the transformative power of women in agriculture, showcasing how technology and determination can revolutionize traditional practices for the betterment of farming communities. Her journey from a humble villager to a skilled drone pilot exemplifies the potential for women to lead innovation and progress in rural areas, setting a remarkable example for others to follow.
