New Delhi, April 30: Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has praised India’s Namo Drone Didi initiative, launched in 2023, as a powerful step toward empowering rural women and enhancing agricultural efficiency. Sharing a video on social media, Gates highlighted the program’s transformative impact, celebrating the women driving its success across the country.

During his recent visit to India, Gates met three Drone Didis from Bihar — Sangita Devi, Sumintra Devi, and Kajol Kumari — and was impressed by their expertise and the tangible benefits drone technology has brought to farming practices. “Flying a drone is no easy task—it requires training and precision,” Gates remarked, emphasizing how these women are helping reshape India’s agricultural future.

The Namo Drone Didi program, run by the Indian government, equips women with drones to fertilize fields more efficiently, cutting down water and fertiliser usage while increasing crop yields. Gates noted that a single Drone Didi can cover five acres in the time it would take five people to fertilize half an acre manually. Future enhancements, such as advanced sensors, aim to enable real-time monitoring of crop health, soil moisture, and pest detection.

Gates also emphasized the role of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in supporting these women entrepreneurs. Each Drone Didi is part of an SHG, which facilitates access to microloans, peer support, and economic independence. The government aims to distribute around 15,000 drones to SHGs by the end of next year.

Reflecting on individual stories, Gates shared how Kajol Kumari started her own seed and fertilizer shop with support from JEEViKA, and how women like Sangita and Sumintra Devi have broken social barriers, becoming role models in their communities.

“I hope the next time you hear a drone, you’ll think of the Didis,” Gates said. “It’s amazing how one piece of technology can reshape lives and redefine what’s possible.”