PJTSAU, Rajendranagar - Get DGCA approval for drone pilot training on 14-12-2023

The Director General of civil Aviation (DGCA) has approved the “PJTSAU Drone Academy” for establishing Remote Pilot Training Organization (RPTO) to provide agri-drone pilot training to farmers/diploma holders/ Agri graduates/unemployed rural youth with the assistance from M/s. Marut Dronetech Private Limited, Hyderabad for a period of ten (10) years. 

PJTSAU has immensely contributed to the development crop specific standard operating protocols (SOPs) for drone based pesticide spraying in seven (7) major crops of Telangana state viz., Rice, Cotton, Pigeonpea, Groundnut, Soybean, Sesame and Safflower. The information on development of crop specific SOP”s for drone based spraying of pesticides in major field crops was submitted to National Committee, Ministry of Agriculture, Co-operation and Farmers Welfare, Government of India.

Keeping in view the agri-domain expertise of PJTSAU on drones, DGCA accorded permission to “PJTSAU Drone Academy” for the benefit of farming community of Telangana state. This academy will be operational shortly at old SABM building, PJTSAU Campus, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad – 500 030. The proposed agri-drone pilot training course will be offered for 6 days, covering the aspects relating to drone pilot training, operational safety, risk assessment, DGCA rules and regulations and crop specific SOP’s etc.

The first of its kind exclusive agriculture domain specific drone pilot training institute of PJTSAU would ensure developing skilled human resources for use of drones in agriculture and allied fields. It envisages to pave way for establishment of customer hiring centers (CHC”s) by agri-graduates / FPO’s / women self-help groups / rural entrepreneurs etc. and generate new employment avenues.