Bengaluru, CropLife India, an association of both Indian and Global R & D driven crop science organizations, and the leading voice of the plant science industry in India, successfully conducted its second Workshop on Skill Enhancement for Drone Didis. The workshop focused on the safe and effective use of drones, while promoting the adoption of precision agriculture practices.
The primary objective of the workshop was to enhance the technical skills of Drone Didis and members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs), while promoting awareness around safe and responsible use of crop protection products and the critical importance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) during field operations.
| Focused training sessions on: 1. Safe and judicious use of agrochemicals 2. Identification and risks of counterfeit crop protection products 3. Importance of adhering to safety protocols for operator and environmental safety |
A key highlight of the event was a live drone demonstration, showcasing the application of crop protection products via drones. This initiative aligns with the Government of India’s flagship ‘NaMo Drone Didi’ programme, launched under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi; to promote technology-driven empowerment of rural women in agriculture.
Through such capacity-building initiatives, CropLife India continues to support the advancement of sustainable agriculture practices and women’s empowerment in rural India.
Dr. S. V. Suresha, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore inaugurated the workshop and addressed SHGs/Drone Didis. Dr. Mudalagiriyappa, Chief Scientist, AICRP for Dryland Agriculture, UAS – Bangalore; Dr. H. S. Shivaramu, Director of Research, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore; Shri Gopinath, MD, Aerosight Technologies; Shri Venugopal N R, Assistant Director, State Special Employment Exchange for SC/ST, Bengaluru were present on the occasion and shared their insights on Drone usage in agriculture.
Dr. S. V. Suresha, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru shared, “The integration of drone technology into agriculture represents a transformative leap forward, especially when driven by women at the grassroots”. The Drone Didis’ Skill Enhancement Workshop is a commendable initiative that empowers rural women with cutting-edge skills, promotes safe agricultural practices and contributes to the broader vision of precision farming. As an academic institution, we are proud to support such initiatives that combine innovation, inclusion and sustainability for the future of Indian agriculture”.
Mr. Durgesh Chandra, Secretary General CropLife India shared, “Empowering women in agriculture through technology is not just a vision—it’s a necessity for the future of sustainable farming. Through the Drone Didis Skill Enhancement Workshop, we are equipping SHG members with the skills and knowledge to safely and effectively use drones for crop protection. This initiative is a step toward transforming rural livelihoods, ensuring safer practices and reinforcing the role of women as leaders in modern agriculture”.
Dr. H. S. Shivaramu, Director of Research, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore shared that Agri-drones can be used for a range of activities including crop monitoring, pesticide spraying and yield estimation, which can lead to more informed decision-making by farmers. The initiative also opens up new employment opportunities for rural youth trained in drone operation and maintenance.
Shri Venugopal N R, Assistant Director, State Special Employment Exchange for SC/ST, Bangalore spoke about the importance of using new technology in agriculture. He believes that adopting these new tools and methods can greatly improve farming practices and help farmers become more successful.
Mr. Shivakumar, Joint Director of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka, emphasized the various schemes operational at KSDA to promote drone usage in agriculture and subsidy facilities available for drone procurement and training. Karnataka Government is giving 100% subsidy to FPO and 70% Subsidy on purchase of agri Drone by Individuals.
Shri Gopinath, MD, Aerosight Technologies emphasized the transformative potential of drone technology in agriculture. He highlighted how agri-drones can enhance productivity, ensure precise input application and support sustainable farming practices.
Dr. Mudalagiriyappa, Chief Scientist, AICRP for Dryland Agriculture, UAS, Bangalore coordinated the programme with great efficiency and dedication. He ensured seamless execution of the event, bringing together key stakeholders from research, industry and farming communities.
The workshop was organized with the support of Department of Agriculture, Government of Karnataka and UAS-B, GKVK, Bengaluru. Approximately 200 participants, including SHGs/Drone Didis, Progressive farmers and industry representatives participated in the workshop.
The workshop encompassed the knowledge sharing on agricultural drones, chemical aspects of agrochemicals, Safe and Responsible use of Crop Protection Products and featured live demonstrations of Kisan Drones by Drone Didis.
About CropLife India:
CropLife India, is a leading industry association of both Indian and global R & D driven crop science organizations. CropLife India jointly represents around 70% of the Indian crop protection market and are responsible for 95% of the molecules introduced in the country. Our member companies have an annual global R & D spend of over US $ 6 billion.
Our member companies continue to work hand-in-hand with the Government to build the agriculture sector – from introduction of several newer and safer molecules, direct investment of building factories, jobs creation, bringing in agriculture innovation and working endlessly over the years with multi-stakeholders to enhance agriculture productivity. All member companies are firmly committed to engage with the farming community to enable Safe, Secure and Sustainable Food Supply.