Panaji: The department of information technology, electronics & communications (DITE&C) is in the process of securing approval for the drone didi training scheme to scale the initiative state-wide. Under this scheme, the department wants to sponsor the training of 100 women every financial year, aiming to create 300 certified women drone pilots over three years.The Goa Information Technology Development Corporation (GITDC), along with Garuda Aerospace, concluded the first five-day drone skilling workshop for 12 women. The initiative marks a significant step forward in integrating cutting-edge technology with rural livelihoods and women-led entrepreneurship in Goa.State govt is using drone technology to boost rural incomes, build self-reliance, and empower local communities. Over the five-day intensive training, the participants gained comprehensive hands-on exposure to drone technology, flight simulation, assembly, maintenance, operational safety, and practical flying procedures.“Through my self-help group, I learnt about the drone didi programme and was eager to explore it. To me, drones were always just about photography and videography. When this opportunity came, I grabbed it. We started with theory, learning how aerodynamic principles connect airplanes to drones, followed by a test to check our understanding. We then moved to video modules and simulator training, learning hands-on controls,” said drone didi Anu Morajkar.Minister Rohan Khaunte said that the through the scheme, govt wants to empower women and assist them to take up entrepreneurship. “Our objective is not simply to train women to fly drones. It is to equip them with the skills and confidence to create livelihoods, build enterprises, and participate in the new economy. This initiative reflects our larger vision of building a digitally empowered Goa where nari shakti, technology, and entrepreneurship come together to drive inclusive economic growth,” said Khaunte.He said that the drone didis are true ambassadors of change who will inspire other women across Goa to embrace new technologies.“We have learnt so much during this workshop. Whether it is for photography, events, or precision services, we can now operate drones independently. This training has boosted our confidence to step forward and start our own businesses. People often say women are meant only for traditional roles, but with technology, we are breaking barriers. This initiative has come at the right time for us,” said participant Subhi Satardekar.
