IIT Guwahati Launches Largest Drone Pilot Training Organisation

In partnership with EduRade, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati has inaugurated the Remote Pilot Training Organization (RPTO) covering an expansive 18-acre area. This facility is equipped to operate nine medium-class drones simultaneously and is dedicated to driving the progress of drone technology in India. The establishment of the RPTO echoes the ambition outlined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to position India as a leading global drone hub by 2030, thus complementing the objectives of the recently launched 'Namo Drone Didi' initiative, as stated by IIT Guwahati.

At the outset, the RPTO will roll out a Medium Class Drone Pilot Training Course certified by the DGCA, designed to enhance the skills of young individuals in the North East and other parts of India. It will have a special focus on women belonging to self-help groups (SHGs) involved in agriculture, identified under the Namo Drone Didi Yojna. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) accredited by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Government of India. This certification will enable them to legally operate drones and pursue careers as Certified Drone Pilots.

Presently, IIT Guwahati is hosting a unique drone training initiative catered to a wide range of defense personnel. This pioneering three-month training program, the first of its kind, is specifically crafted for Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) and other officers, with the goal of modernizing armed forces operations. The initiative focuses on providing thorough training across different facets of drone technologies, encompassing pilot training, software operations, and practical applications.

Since 2015, EduRade, a subsidiary of RC HobbyTech Solutions (RCH) and nurtured within the IIT Guwahati Research Park, has been providing aeromodelling workshops. "Since the past three years IIT Guwahati has been dedicating itself to cultivating innovation and excellence in drone technology services education, empowering organizations and individuals to emerge as leaders and pioneers in this swiftly advancing field. As we witness the rapid growth of the drone industry and the mounting demand for drone pilots, the Institute envisions extending drone education, entrepreneurial activity and manufacturing to every corner of India. Through this collaboration, our goal is to nurture a generation equipped with the skills and knowledge essential to excel in the realm of drone technology, thus driving forward progress and innovation in this dynamic field", said Professor Parameswar K Iyer, Dean PRBR at IIT Guwahati.