Through “Apna Samvaad” in Gorakhpur, HURL brought together women drone entrepreneurs from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar to share experiences, strengthen peer learning and expand technology-led livelihood opportunities.

GORAKHPUR. Uttar Pradesh (India CSR): Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Limited (HURL) organised “Apna Samvaad” with Lakhpati Drone Didis from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, creating a platform for women entrepreneurs who are using drone technology to support agricultural practices and build pathways to livelihood, enterprise and self-reliance.

Technology Meets Enterprise

The interaction highlighted how women in rural communities are adopting emerging technology to create meaningful economic opportunities. Drone Didis from across Uttar Pradesh and Bihar joined the programme virtually and shared their personal journeys, field experiences, successes and the challenges they encounter while using drones in agriculture.

Their experiences reflected a wider shift in rural entrepreneurship, where access to technology, practical skills and local support can help women participate more actively in the agricultural economy. From learning to operate drones to applying their skills in the field, the participants demonstrated how technology can create new possibilities for income generation and community-level enterprise.

Shared Learning Network

The session featured an interaction with Dr. Siba Prasad Mohanty, Managing Director, HURL. He listened to the Drone Didis’ experiences and encouraged them to continue building their entrepreneurial journeys with confidence and purpose.

Dr. Mohanty also assured the participants of HURL’s continued support and emphasised the value of mutual learning among the women entrepreneurs. He encouraged Drone Didis to guide and support one another, helping fellow participants address operational challenges, exchange knowledge and strengthen their work on the ground.

The peer-learning approach is significant for first-generation women entrepreneurs, particularly when technology adoption requires confidence, regular practice and a support network that understands local realities.

Recognition Drives Momentum

The occasion also included an award ceremony recognising the three highest-performing Lakhpati Drone Didis for their outstanding contribution and achievements. The recognition celebrated not only individual performance but also the growing role of women in adopting technology for agricultural and livelihood transformation.

By acknowledging their efforts, the programme underlined the importance of creating visible role models for other women in rural communities. These entrepreneurs are showing that technology can be a practical tool for both agricultural progress and financial independence.

Fields of Opportunity

“Apna Samvaad” reflected the growing potential of women-led, technology-enabled enterprise in rural India. As Drone Didis take the power of drones from the skies to the fields, they are helping create new opportunities in agriculture, income generation and self-reliance.

The initiative brings together three important forces—women’s empowerment, access to technology and agricultural transformation—demonstratin