PANAJI, 8 June 2025: In a major stride toward modernizing agriculture in Goa, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant recently launched the state’s first agriculture drone during the inauguration of the Kharif Mechanised Sowing of Paddy 2025.
The landmark event, held at the Don Bosco Society in Raia, was attended by Agriculture Minister Ravi S. Naik, ICAR Director Dr. Praveen Kumar, and officials from KVK North and South Goa.
A key highlight of the event was the announcement of the Drone Didi initiative, designed to empower women farmers by integrating them into the agri-tech ecosystem. As part of this program, 10 additional drones will be deployed to assist women-led self-help groups (SHGs) in agricultural operations. SHG members will receive professional training to operate the drones and secure pilot licenses, thereby enhancing their technical skills and income potential.
Speaking at the launch, CM Sawant emphasized that drone technology will revolutionize agricultural practices in Goa by optimizing crop management, reducing resource waste, and increasing overall farm efficiency.
“The Drone Didi initiative is a step towards not only modernizing Goa’s agriculture sector but also empowering women to lead the way in agri-tech innovation,” Dr. Sawant said.
This initiative underscores the government’s continued commitment to technology-driven, sustainable, and inclusive growth in agriculture, aligning with national objectives of Atmanirbhar Bharat and women-led development.
