DW BUREAU / Chandigarh

With an aim to open up new job avenues in the various sectors including aerial cinematography, photography, mapping, surveillance and agricultural for the youth, Punjab Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Ropar to impart training in the upcoming & emerging drone technologies to the youth of the state.

The MoU was signed by Director General C-PYTE Major General Mr. Rambir Mann and Director IIT, Ropar Prof. Rajeev Ahuja in the presence of Punjab Employment Generation, Skill Development and Training Minister Mr. Aman Arora. Director Employment Generation Ms Amrit Singh was also present on the occasion.

Aman Arora said that this collaboration will address the growing demand for indigenous drone pilots in the rapidly developing drone ecosystem, besides strengthening and expanding drone-based training, research, development and manufacturing for various sectors such as agriculture, mapping, disaster management, wildlife conservation, and healthcare. This training program is expected to provide over 29,000 job opportunities for the youth in the state, Mr. Aman Arora said while adding that as many as 150 youth will be trained as drone pilots through C-PYTE and IIT Ropar. These youth will be given DGCA certificates, which are globally recognised.

Apart from this, lIT Ropar will also assist C-PYTE in establishing a Drone Centre of Excellence at one of its Camps, where in addition to drone operator training, drone repair and assembly is to be carried out, the Cabinet Minister stated.

Director Employment Generation Ms. Amrit Singh said that the youth who successfully complete the training will also be supported in finding appropriate employment. This endeavour will greatly benefit our youth by teaching them modern skills and providing them enhanced employment opportunities.
(editor@dailyworld.in)