India

India's rise in world of drone technology

Aditi Sharma

Imagine the whir of propellers slicing through the air, a symphony of innovation taking flight. This is the sound of India's rise in the world of drone technology, and a key player in this exciting story is the Remote Pilot Training Organization (RPTO), which is a high tech boot camp for drone whizzes.Here, aspiring pilots learn the ins and outs of drones, from the core essentials of how they work to the rules of the sky. They master safety procedures, practice intricate movements and gain hands-on experience under the watchful eyes of expert instructors. Upon graduation, they receive the coveted Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC), their license to fly drones commercially.

The possibilities with drones are endless, as vast as the sky itself. From capturing stunning aerial photos to streamlining infrastructure checks, drones are revolutionizing everything from agriculture to disaster relief. But to unlock their true potential, we need a skilled workforce. That's where RPTOs come in, bridging the gap between cutting edge tech and human expertise. By providing top notch drone pilot training, they ensure a pool of qualified flyers who can navigate the complexities of drone operation and put these amazing machines to good use across various industries.

Leading the charge is the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IITG), in collaboration with EduRade, a brand owned by RC HobbyTech Solutions Pvt. Ltd. They have launched India's largest RPTO, spanning 18 acre, this state of the art facility has the capacity to operate nine medium class drones simultaneously, positioning it as a central hub for advancing drone technology and training in India.

Dr. Parameswar Krishnan Iyer, of IIT Guwahati, highlighted the importance of this initiative. Their goal is to propel drone technology in India, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of making India a global drone hub by 2030.The RPTO also plays a key role in the "Namo Drone Didi" program, empowering women from Self Help Groups (SHGs) to use drones in agriculture. By equipping them with the skills and knowledge, this program not only boosts agricultural productivity but also empowers these women economically.

IIT Guwahati's RPTO has a special focus on providing high quality drone training to the youth in North East India, a region often facing educational and infrastructural hurdles. Graduates of the drone pilot training program at IIT Guwahati have a wide range of career options across various sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, media, environmental conservation, public safety, and more. The institute also plans to offer advanced programs and certifications in drone technology, further enhancing career prospects for its students.

Further, IIT Guwahati is also making strides in modernizing defense operations with tailored training programs for defense personnel.