Partnership with IFFCO and Drone Destination to Train Women as Skilled Drone Operators and Entrepreneurs

Amit Pandey,Nainital,

The Uttarakhand government has taken a significant step towards empowering women in the state with the introduction of the Mukhyamantri Lakhpati Didi Yojna. This scheme aims to enhance the economic condition of women, particularly those in the pahari region, by providing them with skill training and opportunities for self-employment. The ultimate goal is to enable women to earn an annual income of over Rs. 1 lakh.

In collaboration with IFFCO and Drone Destination, the government has launched a comprehensive training program for women, specifically targeting self-help groups. This program aims to empower women-led self-help groups by equipping them with the necessary skills to operate drones and become successful entrepreneurs. By embracing technological advancements and providing training in this emerging field, the government seeks to foster economic empowerment among women.

The Lakhpati Didi initiative, a vital component of the broader poverty alleviation and economic empowerment mission, has been initiated by DAY-NRLM (Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission). It encourages households within self-help groups to engage in multiple livelihood activities, complemented by value chain interventions. This holistic approach ensures sustainable income generation, with the target of enabling 1.25 lakh Lakhpati Didis by 2025.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressed his enthusiasm for this initiative, noting that its implementation during the silver jubilee of Uttarakhand's formation would significantly contribute to the economic development of women in the state. Recognizing the importance of women empowerment, he emphasized the government's commitment to equipping women with the necessary skills to thrive. As part of this commitment, women self-help groups are offered interest-free loans of up to Rs. 5 lakh.

Furthermore, efforts are underway to connect self-help groups with local product promotion. During his recent visit to the border village of Mana, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged pilgrims embarking on the Char Dham Yatra to allocate five percent of their travel expenses towards purchasing local products. This initiative serves to boost the income of women and aligns with the Prime Minister's unwavering dedication to women's economic empowerment.

Swami Yatishwaranand, speaking on the Yojna, expressed his confidence in the state government, led by CM Dhami, and their expeditious efforts towards empowering women. He believes that, by 2025, the women of Uttarakhand will be significantly more empowered, paving the way for a stronger and more inclusive society.