Under the aegis of the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (DITE&C), the Goa Information Technology Development Corporation (GITDC), along with Garuda Aerospace Limited, successfully concluded its first 5-day Pilot Drone Skilling Workshop for 12 women. The initiative marks a significant step forward in integrating cutting-edge technology with rural livelihoods and women-led entrepreneurship in Goa.
Aligning with the vision of PM Modi’s nationwide Namo Drone Didi initiative, the state government is using drone technology to boost rural incomes, build self-reliance and empower local communities. Over the five-day intensive training, the participants gained comprehensive hands-on exposure to drone technology, flight simulation, assembly, maintenance, operational safety and practical flying procedures.
The workshop concluded with a valedictory ceremony attended by the Minister for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications and Chairman of GITDC, Rohan Khaunte. Also present were Kabir Shirgaonkar, Director, DITE&C and Managing Director, GITDC; Praveen Volvotkar, Managing Director, ITG; Amit Asnodkar, ZP Member, Socorro; Sandeep Salgaonkar, ZP Member, Penha de Franca; Sonia Sanjay Pednekar, Sarpanch of Socorro; Swapnil Chodankar, Sarpanch of Penha de Franca and Liladhar Harmalkar, President of Hanuman Devasthan, Carrem. During the ceremony, the participants showcased their practical flying skills through live drone demonstrations, following which certificates were presented to them by the Minister.
Speaking on the impact of the initiative, Rohan Khaunte said, “Our objective is not simply to train women to fly drones. It is to equip them with the skills and confidence to create livelihoods, build enterprises and participate in the new economy. This initiative reflects our larger vision of building a digitally empowered Goa where Nari Shakti, technology and entrepreneurship come together to drive inclusive economic growth. Having demonstrated immense potential and enthusiasm for advanced training, these 12 women are true ambassadors of change who will set an example and inspire others across Goa to embrace new technologies.”
Highlighting her experience, Anu Morajkar said, “Through my Self-Help Group, I learned about the Drone Didi programme and was eager to explore it. To me, drones were always just about photography and videography. When this opportunity came, I grabbed it. We started with theory, learning how aerodynamic principles connect airplanes to drones, followed by a test to check our understanding. We then moved to video modules and simulator training, learning hands-on controls. Operating the real drone during our practical flying sessions was also an amazing experience. This training is a wonderful opportunity and I look forward to applying these skills in the future.”
Sharing about the training, Subhi Satardekar said, “As our 5-day training concludes today, I am truly grateful to the IT Minister and the IT Department for giving women this platform. We have learned so much during this workshop. Whether it is for photography, events or precision services, we can now operate drones independently. This training has boosted our confidence to step forward and start our own businesses. People often say women are meant only for traditional roles, but with technology, we are breaking barriers. This initiative has come at the right time for us.”
Under the Goa Drone Policy, the state is in the process of securing approval for the Goa Drone Didi Training Scheme to scale the initiative state-wide. Under this scheme, the Government of Goa will fully sponsor the training of 100 women every financial year, aiming to create 300 certified women drone pilots over three years.
Through skilling programmes like these, the Goa Government remains dedicated to building a future-ready, self-reliant Goa where women lead from the forefront and harness technology to uplift themselves and their communities.
