Ready for Takeoff: NIT Srinagar, NIELIT team up for Drone Pilot Training Centre

Srinagar, Feb 8: The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, in partnership with NIELIT, is set to establish a state-of-the-art Drone Pilot Training Centre.

A statement said that this initiative was announced during the conclusion of a six-week Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Programme (ESDP) focused on hands-on training in drone technology.

The workshop, organised by the Department of Mechanical Engineering at NIT Srinagar in collaboration with MSME PPDC Sanath Nagar and NIELIT Srinagar, was sponsored by the Ministry of MSME, Government of India. The valedictory session featured Prof. Marouf Wani, Head of the Mechanical Engineering Department, and was attended by various dignitaries, including Director Prof. Binodh Kumar Kanujia.

Dr. Dinesh Kumar Rajendran, Nodal Officer of the MSME ESDP Scheme, emphasized the increasing demand for drone technology in Kashmir and highlighted funding opportunities available through government support. The workshop attracted 25 participants from Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, showcasing the region’s growing interest in drone technology.

The new Drone Pilot Training Centre will offer a six-month collaborative certificate course, combining resources from both NIT Srinagar and NIELIT. Faculty members will work together to advance research and development in drone technology.

As part of this initiative, Dr. Rajendran has obtained a DGCA license for flying drones up to 25 kg and is set to receive RPTO Trainer license training, further enhancing the department’s capabilities in drone pilot training.

Participants expressed enthusiasm for the program, with  Hiba noting the increasing involvement of women in the field. The event underscores NIT Srinagar’s commitment to fostering innovation and skill development in emerging technologies like drones.