Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) Kashmir, in collaboration with AVPL International, has successfully commenced an intensive training program on the third day of the event to advance drone technology skills among aspiring agritech professionals. With funding from the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME), this specialized training aims to enhance the precision and profitability of farming practices through the integration of drone technology.
The program, hosted at SKUAST’s Center for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (CAIML), has drawn many participants from diverse academic and professional backgrounds, reflecting the growing interest in tech-driven agriculture. The training sessions, led by prominent industry experts, focus on key drone technologies and their applications in sustainable farming, including the use of multispectral cameras and thermal imaging for enhanced crop yield and soil health.
AVPL International, an innovator in drone technology, has played a pivotal role in the training sessions. Himanshu Sharma, CEO of AVPL International, emphasized the critical role of precision farming in ensuring sustainable agriculture. “Sustainable farming can only be achieved through precision farming, and AVPL International is committed to advancing technology in this field. The right choice of drones and technology, including innovations such as AI-driven imaging and IoT integration, is essential for creating viable and impactful solutions,” Sharma said.
Prof. Nazir A. Ganai, Vice Chancellor of SKUAST, praised AVPL’s role in revolutionizing farming with drone technology, stating, “AVPL has been a leader in integrating drone technology into agriculture, significantly contributing to both farming efficiency and environmental sustainability.”
The program was also attended by Dr. Himanshu Parhak, Director General of ICAR Sher-e-Kashmir, who lauded the collaborative efforts at SKUAST, including the CAIML's initiatives in artificial intelligence and machine learning, which are expected to drive future advancements in agricultural technology. Dr. Showkat Rasool, the Program Coordinator and head of CAIML, also highlighted the essential role of industry collaboration in building a strong, tech-savvy workforce equipped for the demands of modern agriculture.
Experts from across India, including IoTechWorld Avigation, MACFOS LIMITED, and IIT Mandi, also contributed their expertise to the sessions. Their involvement provided students with hands-on experience in essential technologies, such as AI and IoT-integrated drones, underscoring the benefits of drone-based crop management, which include enhanced crop quality, increased yield, and reduced labor costs.
With initiatives like this, SKUAST aims to nurture a generation of innovators and entrepreneurs who can bring transformative ideas to India’s agricultural landscape.
