Jhalawar (Rajasthan), Mar 8, 2025: Literacy India, a non-profit organization dedicated to grassroots empowerment, has launched an innovative ‘Drone for Farming’ initiative, marking a significant milestone in gender-inclusive agricultural advancements. The program, currently training women in Jhalawar, Rajasthan, as drone pilots, aims to equip them with cutting-edge skills to enhance agricultural efficiency and sustainability. By integrating modern technology with traditional farming practices, Literacy India is fostering a new wave of women-led agricultural innovation. The initiative is a part of Literacy India's broader commitment to empowering rural women through skill development and self-sufficiency.
In addition to drone technology training, the organization continues to strengthen its Krishi Sakhi program, which encourages women's active participation in farming across 50 villages. The initiative supports women by encouraging small-scale crop cultivation in personal spaces such as small plots and backyards; educating them on natural farming benefits and compost production using domestic waste with minimal chemical use; and providing essential farming equipment and training in resource utilization to improve productivity.
Building on its commitment to sustainable and inclusive agriculture, Literacy India aims to expand drone training for women, empowering them in precision farming. It will further strengthen the Krishi Sakhi initiative by training more women as agricultural leaders, extend outreach to additional villages, and promote the integration of modern techniques with sustainable practices — creating a more resilient and self-reliant farming ecosystem.
According to Kanhailal, a progressive farmer and Farmers’ Lead from Sadla village, “Organic farming has empowered marginalized farmers by improving soil fertility, reducing input costs, and increasing crop yield. This sustainable approach has not only enhanced productivity but also ensured better income and long-term agricultural viability for small farmers. With Literacy India’s initiatives, farmers are now able to access Krishi Vigyan Kendra facilities, such as soil testing techniques and other government-supported services, significantly improving their agricultural practices.”
Dr T C Verma, Senior Scientist & Head of KVK Jhalawar, commended the efforts, stating, “It is highly encouraging to see Literacy India conducting drone pilot training in this region. Under the government’s initiative, trained women will receive early opportunities through the Namo Didi Scheme, positioning them ahead in agricultural innovation.”
Speaking on the initiative, Capt Indraani Singh, Founder of Literacy India, stated, “The ‘Drone for Farming’ program is a groundbreaking step towards integrating technology with sustainable agriculture while fostering women’s leadership in the field. By equipping women with advanced skills, we are not only enhancing agricultural productivity but also driving a cultural shift towards gender-inclusive innovations in farming.”
“This initiative holds a special significance for me. Over a decade ago, when I first set foot in Jhalawar, I saw young girls being married off early, their potential untapped, their dreams confined. As a woman aviator, I stood before them—sharing my journey, speaking of possibilities, and urging them to recognize their crucial role in their communities. I promised them change. Today, seeing these women embrace technology, leadership, and independence in agriculture, I feel that promise coming full circle,” she said.
With a vision to transform rural farming communities, Literacy India remains dedicated to equipping farmers — especially women — with the necessary knowledge and tools to embrace modern, sustainable agricultural techniques. By bridging the gap between technology and traditional farming, the organization continues to champion empowerment, self-reliance, and innovation in rural India.
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