Kashmir’s First Female DGCA Drone Instructor Rutba Majeed Wins ₹15 Lakh MSME Grant for Innovation
Srinagar: In a significant achievement for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir, Rutba Majeed, a young electrical engineering graduate, has made history by becoming the region’s first woman to be certified as a drone instructor by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). Adding another feather to her cap, she has now secured a prestigious grant of ₹15 lakh under the MSME Hackathon 5.0.
Revolutionizing Power Infrastructure with Technology
The grant has been awarded to support Rutba’s innovative project aimed at enhancing the safety and efficiency of power systems. She is developing a low-cost, drone-based imaging system specifically designed to detect, map, and assist in repairing faults within power infrastructure.
Currently, identifying faults in high-tension wires and electricity poles in difficult terrains is a risky and time-consuming task. Rutba’s drone solution intends to automate this process, making it safer for ground staff and ensuring quicker restoration of power services.
The Journey from Engineering to Drone Tech
Rutba’s journey into the world of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) began during her internship at NIELIT. While observing the growing use of drones, she noticed a critical gap in professional training and safety awareness.
Determined to bridge this gap, she pursued rigorous training to become a certified instructor. Today, she is not only a pioneer for women in technology but also an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs in the valley.
Empowering the Future of J&K
This recognition by the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) highlights the immense potential of Kashmiri youth in the field of industrial technology. Rutba’s success story serves as a testament to how local talent is addressing real-world challenges through innovation.
Her project is expected to set a new benchmark for drone applications in the industrial sector, proving that with the right vision and support, the sky is the limit for the daughters of Kashmir.
