India is taking bold strides toward becoming a global drone hub, and a major step in this journey has emerged from an unlikely place—Kalahandi, Odisha. Known for its rich tribal heritage, this district has now become home to the country’s first Drone Centres of Excellence (CoEs). But this isn’t just about technology—it’s about empowerment, skill development, and opening doors to new opportunities for tribal youth and women.
A Vision for Rural Transformation
The initiative, spearheaded by MP Sujeet Kumar under the Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY), is a game-changer. In collaboration with IG Drones, a Gurugram-based drone technology company, these centres aim to provide hands-on training to young minds in rural India. Located in the Gram Panchayats of Sagada and Bhatangpadar, these hubs symbolize a new dawn for skill-based education in remote regions.
With ₹10 lakhs from Kumar’s MPLADS allocation, this project is not just a standalone initiative but aligns with broader national goals—Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047. The government’s ambitious vision for the drone industry aims to scale operations from 27,000 to over one lakh, and this initiative ensures that rural India is not left behind in this growth.
Also read: MP set to become the next big drone manufacturing hub.
Why Drones? Why Now?
Drones are no longer just about aerial photography. From agriculture to infrastructure monitoring, from disaster response to defense, drones are shaping the future across industries. With technological advancements, India’s demand for trained drone pilots and technicians is skyrocketing. The question is—who will fill these roles?
Kalahandi’s Drone CoEs answer this question by training tribal youth and women, equipping them with skills that can lead to sustainable employment.
Breaking Barriers for Women in Tech
A significant aspect of this initiative is the integration of the Prime Minister’s ‘Drone Didi’ programme, which encourages women’s participation in drone operations. For decades, technical fields have remained male-dominated, but projects like these are breaking barriers.
By giving women access to emerging technologies, the initiative is not only fostering gender inclusivity but also creating financially independent professionals in rural India.
Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya, founder & CEO of IG Drones, emphasized the initiative’s impact, stating, “These centres aim to provide specialized training to rural students and unemployed youth, preparing them for roles as drone pilots and technicians.”
A Future Built on Skills and Innovation
One of the most exciting aspects of this project is its alignment with the National Education Policy’s focus on STEM learning. By introducing schoolchildren to drone technology, the initiative ensures that the next generation is prepared for a tech-driven world.
Additionally, with partnerships through IG Drones and the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), trained individuals will have better employment prospects, making this effort a long-term investment in India’s workforce.
Also read: How 3d printing is transforming defence drone development.
Addressing Challenges and Looking Ahead
While the initiative is promising, the drone industry in India still faces hurdles, particularly in regulatory approvals for sensitive areas. However, as Sanghapriya pointed out, the approval process has become far more streamlined, especially for startups committed to manufacturing 100% Indian drones without Chinese components.
This aligns with India’s broader self-reliance goals, ensuring that the country is not just adopting drone technology but also becoming a leader in its development and production.
Kalahandi: A Hub for the Future
Kalahandi’s transformation through the Drone CoEs is a testament to how targeted initiatives can reshape rural economies.
What was once a district known primarily for its agricultural heritage is now making headlines for advanced technology and skill development. This initiative serves as a blueprint for other states to follow, proving that when technology meets opportunity, the results can be revolutionary.
With India’s push to become a global drone hub by 2030, projects like these ensure that growth is inclusive, sustainable, and driven by the very people who need it the most. And as these young drone pilots take to the skies, they’re not just flying drones—they’re flying toward a brighter future.
