Kanpur, 19 November, 2024: The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK), in collaboration with the African-Asian Rural Development Organization (AARDO), inaugurated an International Training Programme titled “Agriculture Practice Using Drones: Plan, Design, Build, and Fly,” running from November 13 to 23, 2024. Total 13 participants from various African and Asian countries have joined the program, highlighting IIT Kanpur’s dedication to global knowledge-sharing and agricultural innovation.

The event commenced with an inauguration ceremony graced by Chief Guest Prof. Bushra Ateeq, Dean of International Relations at IIT Kanpur, and Guest of Honor Prof. Bishakh Bhattacharya from the Department of Mechanical Engineering. Program coordinators Prof. J. Ramkumar, Department of Mechanical Engineering and Design, and Dr. Amandeep Singh Oberoi, SREO Imagineering Laboratory, welcomed attendees, alongside international participants and dignitaries from African nations.

In her inaugural address, Prof. Bushra Ateeq emphasized the transformative potential of drones in agriculture, which can enhance precision agriculture by optimizing resource use and improving crop health and yield. She highlighted IIT Kanpur’s active international engagements, showcasing how collaborative ventures like this bring advanced technological solutions to global agricultural challenges.

Prof. Bishakh Bhattacharya lauded IIT Kanpur’s initiatives in fostering agricultural innovations, such as the application of drones in sustainable farming practices. He acknowledged the role of Prof. J Ramkumar and his team in advancing accessible knowledge in this field through the RuTAG initiative, positioning IIT Kanpur as a leader in agricultural technology development.

The program, structured by Prof. J Ramkumar and Dr. Amandeep Singh Oberoi, leverages their expertise in micro/nano machining, additive manufacturing, and sustainable engineering. Over eight days, participants will be trained in various aspects of agricultural drone applications, from drone design and construction to specialized flying techniques and troubleshooting.

This comprehensive course covers key areas in agricultural drone usage, including precision crop monitoring, soil health assessment, pest control, and smart irrigation. Participants will gain practical insights into drone-based data collection and sensor integration for agricultural monitoring, with hands-on sessions on flight path planning, aerial mapping, and the use of drones in remote sensing and automated irrigation systems.

Practical sessions will offer participants experience in all stages of drone application in agriculture, including flight path planning, aerial imaging, and the use of sensor technologies for monitoring. Additionally, they will explore how drones support smart irrigation and other automation to optimize farm operations. By equipping participants with skills to design, build, and fly drones tailored for agriculture, IIT Kanpur and AARDO aim to empower attendees to drive sustainable, efficient farming practices in their regions.

About IIT Kanpur:

The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, established in 1959, holds the distinction of being recognized as an Institute of National Importance by the Government of India through an Act of Parliament. Renowned for its excellence in science and engineering education, IIT Kanpur has made significant contributions to research and development over the decades. Its expansive, lush green campus spans 1,050 acres and hosts a rich array of academic and research resources. The institute comprises 19 departments, 26 centers, three interdisciplinary programs, and two specialized schools across engineering, science, design, humanities, and management disciplines. With over 590 full-time faculty members and more than 9,500 students, IIT Kanpur continues to be a leader in fostering innovation and academic rigor.

For more information, visit www.iitk.ac.in.