DRIISHYA seeks expansion with three new drone training grounds

To meet the increasing demand for drone training, the Drone Imaging and Information Service of Haryana Limited (DRIISHYA), a state-backed initiative, has sought approval for three additional training grounds at the Karnal Aviation Club. The expansion is expected to enhance its capacity to train more drone pilots and support various industries adopting drone technology.

Currently, DRIISHYA operates a single training ground. Authorities believe that adding three more grounds will help accommodate the growing demand for training, particularly under the Drone Didi programme. This programme aims to train 5,000 women from 500 self-help groups to operate drones, primarily for agricultural purposes, on a rental basis.

“With the growing demand for drones as a game-changing technology in various sectors, we have witnessed a surge in enrolment for our training courses. To accommodate this demand and maintain high standards, we have sought approval for three additional grounds at the Karnal Aviation Club. We have sent a proposal to the Director General of Civil Aviation in this regard. We are hopeful that three more fields will be provided for practical training,” said Phool Kumar, Chief Operating Officer, DRIISHYA.

The current training model involves a batch of 10 participants completing a seven-day course, with each trainee receiving over 6.5 hours of hands-on flying experience. The additional training grounds would enable DRIISHYA to train up to 100 candidates per month.

Phool Kumar highlighted the diverse applications of drones, saying, “Drones are being used in various fields, including agriculture, mining, power line inspection, large-scale mapping and more. For instance, drones detect faults in high-power transmission lines, inspecting approximately 600 km of lines to identify potential issues like hot spots that could cause power supply breakdowns. A report regarding these faults is then sent to the office concerned.”

Drones also play a critical role in measuring the volume of excavated sand or soil and in monitoring law and order during large gatherings. “During disaster management situations like floods, drones are indispensable,” Kumar added.

The Drone Didi programme and other initiatives underscore DRIISHYA's commitment to developing skilled drone operators and promoting the adoption of drone technology across industries.