NE EDUCATION BUREAU
CHENNAI, OCT 5
The Centre for Aerospace Research (CASR) at Anna University’s MIT Campus, Chennai, has successfully completed its first batch of Drone Piloting and Maintenance training for defence officials, opening new avenues for lifelong learning and reskilling. Sponsored by the Directorate General Resettlement (DGR), the programme ran from September 8 to October 3, 2025, and included 22 Junior Commissioned Officers and Other Ranks from the armed forces.
Inaugurating the course, Dr. Jayasree, Dean, MIT, emphasised the importance of continuous learning in a rapidly evolving technology-driven era.
- First batch of armed forces officials complete Drone Piloting and Maintenance training under DGR sponsorship
- Sponsored by the Directorate General Resettlement (DGR), the programme ran from September 8 to October 3, 2025, and included 22 Junior Commissioned Officers and Other Ranks from the Armed Forces
- The course, led by Wing Commander K.R. Srikanth (Retd) and his team, offered a comprehensive blend of theory, simulator sessions, drone maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), and hands-on flying exposure
CASR Director Dr. K. Senthil Kumar underscored the significance of drone skill development, pointing out both its employment potential and operational challenges.
“As our armed forces personnel transition into civilian life, their ability to embrace new-age technologies like drones will be crucial for building sustainable second careers,” he said.
Training designed for future-ready skills
The course, led by Wing Commander K.R. Srikanth (Retd) and his team, offered a comprehensive blend of theory, simulator sessions, drone maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), and hands-on flying exposure. Candidates were trained to qualify for DGCA Remote Pilot Certification (small and medium drones), valid for 10 years.
Special sessions on agricultural drone operations, in collaboration with CASR’s strategic partner Dhaksha Unmanned Systems (DUMS), equipped participants with applied knowledge relevant to India’s expanding agri-tech and industrial sectors.
The batch culminated on October 3 with the award of flying badges and course completion certificates, presented by Major Ajay Kumar, the Chief Guest for the valedictory function.
Pathway to lifelong learning and employability
CASR officials highlighted that the initiative is not just a training programme, but a lifelong learning opportunity. By upskilling retiring and released defence personnel, the university is enabling them to stay competitive in the fast-growing drone industry, spanning fields such as agriculture, infrastructure monitoring, disaster management, logistics, and defence applications.
“This initiative is a milestone in helping our service members reorient their skills for the civilian ecosystem while contributing to India’s vision of becoming a leader in drone technology,” Dr. Senthil Kumar added.
