Kerala Agricultural University Launches Drone Pilot Training to Boost Agri-Tech Skills

 

NABARD-backed programme aims to create certified drone pilots for precision farming and commercial applications

Updated: October 29, 2025 | Kochi

    The Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) has taken a major step toward modernizing the state’s farm sector with the launch of its first Drone Pilot Training Programme, aimed at creating a pool of certified professionals in drone operations for agriculture and allied industries.

The programme was inaugurated at the KAU Agri Business Incubator (R-ABI) in Vellanikkara, under the NABARD-funded project “Empowering Agriculture through Innovation.”

Jointly organized by KAU’s Agri Business Incubator and Modha Aero Academy Pvt. Ltd., the initiative is expected to bridge the gap between agricultural research and field-level technology adoption, enabling farmers to access the benefits of precision agriculture and data-driven farm management.

Building a Skilled Drone Workforce

The training aims to equip participants with hands-on expertise in drone piloting, maintenance, and data analytics, preparing them for both agricultural and commercial applications. The facility is licensed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), ensuring compliance with national standards for drone operation and certification.

“Drone technology represents the future of precision farming,” said Nagesh Kumar Anumala, Chief General Manager, NABARD Kerala Regional Office. “This initiative will nurture skilled professionals and agripreneurs capable of bringing innovation directly to the farmgate. NABARD remains committed to supporting sustainable agri-innovation programmes across Kerala,” he added.

A New Era for Kerala’s Agriculture

K. N. Anith, Director of Research at KAU, highlighted that the university’s entry into DGCA-certified drone training signifies a new era of technology-led transformation in the state’s agricultural landscape.

“KAU has already standardized several drone-based systems for farm operations. With this RPTO facility, we are now creating certified manpower capable of translating these innovations into practical, field-level solutions — improving efficiency and profitability for farmers,” he said.

Mani Chellappan, Dean of the College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara, added that adopting technology such as drones is crucial to addressing labour shortages and enhancing productivity in Kerala’s farming sector.

Driving the Agri-Tech Ecosystem

Through this initiative, KAU aims to strengthen Kerala’s agri-tech ecosystem, encouraging young professionals to pursue entrepreneurial ventures in drone services, precision spraying, crop health monitoring, and agri-mapping.

With the integration of artificial intelligence, remote sensing, and digital analytics, the programme is poised to make farming smarter, safer, and more sustainable.