IIT Guwahati Introduces Drone Pilot Training Program in India

In collaboration with EduRade, a brand owned by RC HobbyTech Solutions Pvt. Ltd. and incubated at IIT Guwahati Research Park, IIT Guwahati have launched India's largest Remote Pilot Training Organisation (RPTO), spanning 18 acres and capable of flying 9 medium-class drones at the same time. The primary goal of this RPTO is to support the development of drone technology in India. It also connects with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ambition of establishing India as a worldwide drone centre by 2030, contributing to the recently established 'Namo Drone Didi' campaign.

The inauguration of IIT Guwahati RPTO represents the Institute's commitment to changing drone training to provide learners with needed skills. Initially, the RPTO will offer a DGCA-Certified Medium Class Drone Pilot Training Course designed to improve the skills of youth in the North East and other parts of India.

It would also cater primarily to women from agricultural self-help groups (SHGs) designated as part of the Namo Drone Didi Yojana. After completing the course, students will receive a Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Government of India. This certification allows them to legally fly drones and seek a profession as Certified Drone Pilots.

Speaking about the collaboration, Biswajit Dey, Director of RC Hobbytech Solutions Pvt. Ltd., said, "Another objective of this collaboration is to assist other industries with drone pilots, such as agriculture, disaster management, real estate, logistics, and other such sectors."

Overall, the collaboration between IIT Guwahati and EduRade marks an intentional effort to stimulate creativity, empower students and entrepreneurs, and promote socioeconomic development through the appropriate use of drone technology. By cultivating a new generation of qualified drone pilots and encouraging business connections, this drone pilot training organisation is prepared to make a lasting influence on the regional and national drone ecosystems.