In a move aimed at equipping students with cutting-edge technological skills, the College of Horticulture at Venkataramannagudem, under Dr. YSR Horticultural University, commenced a specialised training programme on drone technology on Monday.

The programme was inaugurated by the university’s Vice-Chancellor, K. Dhanunjaya Rao, who emphasised the growing significance of drone-based technologies in modern horticulture and agriculture. Addressing students and faculty members, he said that Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are increasingly being used for crop surveillance, precision farming, land mapping, research activities and efficient farm management.

Mr. Dhanunjaya Rao encouraged students to embrace emerging technologies and develop practical expertise that would enhance their employability and prepare them for future opportunities in the rapidly evolving agricultural sector.

Speaking on the occasion, Dean of Horticulture, B. Prasanna Kumar, said the training programme has been designed to provide students with hands-on exposure to drone operations and related technologies. He stated that such initiatives help bridge the gap between academic learning and industry requirements by offering real-world technical experience.

The organisers explained that the programme includes both theoretical and practical components. Students will receive training in drone design and architecture, computer-based flight simulation, real-time drone operation, aerial navigation techniques, maintenance procedures, safety protocols and troubleshooting methods.

Associate Dean N.B.V. Chalapathi Rao, Principal Investigator B.M. Chennakesavulu and Co-Investigator N. Emmanuel outlined the course structure and highlighted its relevance in improving students’ technical proficiency and field-level application skills.

Faculty members, scientists, researchers and students attended the inaugural session and expressed keen interest in exploring the growing role of drone technology in horticultural research and precision farming practices.