Chennai: Anna University has inaugurated a Remote Pilot Training Organization (RPTO) at the Agricultural Engineering Institute in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, marking a significant step in agricultural modernization.

Launched on November 25, 2024, by Water Resources Minister Shri Tulsiram Silawat, the initiative aims to train youth, farmers, and women in drone technology.

Minister Silawat highlighted the transformative potential of drones, stating that they offer cost-effective solutions for precision farming, including fertilizer spraying and crop monitoring.

He lauded the collaboration under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, aligning with India's vision of technological advancement.

Anna University's program emphasizes inclusivity, with a focus on empowering women farmers through the "Namo Drone Didi" scheme.

This initiative supports women-led Self-Help Groups in adopting modern farming methods. Additionally, the RPTO promotes diversity by training transgender individuals and employing them as trainers.

The facility will equip trainees with skills applicable to agriculture, infrastructure inspection, disaster management, and more. Drones are expected to address challenges like labor shortages and climate change while enhancing crop yields and sustainability.

The RPTO is set to train thousands, fostering a skilled workforce for India's growing drone sector and contributing to a tech-driven agricultural revolution.