Asteria Aerospace Limited introduces SkyDeck, a self-service SaaS platform for streamlined drone data management. SkyDeck offers advanced tools and analytics for industries like GIS, construction, oil and gas, and agriculture, enabling data-driven insights and proactive decision-making with secure, centralized management and AI-powered analysis.

NewSpace Research and Technologies achieved a record by testing a 100 kg MTOW UAV at Ladakh's Umling La pass, the world's highest motorable pass. The UAV carried a 25 kg payload from 5800m to 6200m, surpassing DJI's previous record of 15 kg at 6150m from 5300m in the Everest region.

The Health Department in Indore has launched a drone survey in Bhanwarkuan and Vishnupuri to address increasing dengue cases. Identifying 198 mosquito breeding sites, the department will urge residents to cover water tanks and eliminate stagnant water. Drones will then spray chemicals to eradicate larvae and control the dengue outbreak.

Hyderabad-based Marut Drones has launched operations in Tamil Nadu, aiming to create 500 drone entrepreneurs by 2024. Collaborating with Annamalai University, they offer drone training and potential monthly earnings of ₹50,000 to ₹60,000 for farmers. Approved by DGCA, Marut is expanding its dealer network and promoting drone use through local organizations.

Optiemus Unmanned Systems (OUS) announced a Rs 140 crore investment in a 'Drone as a Service' model to boost Indian agriculture by 2025. Unveiled at the 5th Drone International Expo, OUS plans to deploy 5,000 drones with 6,000 trained pilots, enhancing productivity and reducing costs for farmers.

India is supplying Israel with weaponry, including rockets and UAVs, amid the Gaza conflict. Premier Explosives provides solid propellants for Israeli weapons, possibly extending to Arrow air defense system components. A 'Made in India' missile was found in Gaza, evidencing the collaboration. India-Israel cooperation also involves drone manufacturing through a partnership between Elbit Systems and Gautam Adani's defense arm, producing Hermes drones. This partnership enhances both nations' defense capabilities and facilitates technology transfer, marked by India's launch of the Drishti 10 Starliner UAV.

Delhivery has received approval from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs to establish 'Delhivery Robotics India Private Limited,' a drone subsidiary for freight air transportation services. This new entity will offer drone-as-a-service for shipment movement and remote sensing, manufacture and sell UAVs globally, and provide drone pilot training, marking Delhivery's innovative expansion in logistics technology.

Industry experts at the Drone International Expo 2024 in Delhi called for better policies, incentives, and a robust component ecosystem to foster indigenization. The Indian drone market, projected to reach USD 27 million in 2024, needs investments in R&D and skilled pilots to meet demand and enhance technology.

The Ministry of Defence allocated over ₹300 crore through its Technology Development Fund (TDF) executed by DRDO to enhance cutting-edge technology and promote 'Aatmanirbharta.' The TDF, under 'Make in India,' supports MSMEs, startups, and academic institutions to develop defence technologies and foster a design and development culture. Successful startups like Pune-based Combat Robotics and ChiStats Labs, and Bengaluru's NewSpace Research and Technologies, have benefited from this scheme.

Ukraine's war has become a major drone battleground, prompting a search for affordable countermeasures. At the Eurosatory trade show, Benelli Armi showcased ALDA anti-drone ammunition, tripling the range of shotguns to combat drones effectively. For CAD 3,100, a shotgun and 1,000 rounds offer a cost-efficient solution.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal emphasized the role of drones in agriculture under the 'NAMO Drone Didi' initiative, which aims to empower women. At the PHDCCI conclave, he noted drones' potential to improve yields, aid cooperative sectors, and reduce costs. The government supports this with a PLI scheme and SIDBI financing.

Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) will appoint a consultant for a 3D digital twin drone survey to create a comprehensive city databank. This GIS-based system aims to enhance revenue, basic facilities, and inter-departmental coordination, while aiding disaster management. The proposal awaits final approval.

India's space market opened to private players, noted the Department of Science and Technology (DST). On May 30, AgniKul Cosmos launched Agnibaan, a two-stage vehicle with India's first 3D-printed semi-cryogenic engines. This Chennai-based startup operates from IIT Madras's NCCRD and successfully launched its inaugural mission from SDSC SHAR.

Using drones to sow paddy seeds can save time, money, and seeds, according to a Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) experiment. The M. S. Swaminathan Rice Research Centre and Krishi Vigyan Kendra tested the drone seeder on a one-acre field in Alappuzha, reducing seed usage from 50 kg to 30 kg and completing the task in just 25 minutes. This marks the first use of drones for sowing in Kerala, highlighting the potential for modern technology in agriculture, said MSS Rice Research Centre director M. Surendran. The success of this experiment promotes efficient and sustainable farming methods.

Aerial surveillance using drones will be implemented in three Wayanad forest divisions. The district administration handed over two drones to forest officials under the Wayanad Initiative for Future Impact (WIFI) program. The need for advanced surveillance arose after fatal elephant attacks. Earlier this year, Belur Makhna, a problem elephant, killed a driver, leading to criticism of the forest department's tracking system. South Wayanad DFO Ajith K Raman highlighted the effectiveness of drones in managing such crises. District Collector Dr. Renu Raj inaugurated the drones, sourced through Manappuram Financiers' CSR fund.

Blue Dart has initiated drone delivery services in partnership with Skye Air Mobility, aiming to enhance logistics within the e-commerce sector. This development follows successful Visual Line of Sight and Beyond Visual Line of Sight trials, marking a significant step towards efficient and environmentally friendly delivery solutions. The company plans to revolutionize last-mile delivery by reducing times and minimizing environmental impacts with drone technology.

Armenia is bolstering its defense capabilities by procuring advanced drones and medium-range surface-to-air missiles from India, including the Akash 1S system and potential acquisitions of the Indo-Israeli MR-SAM and Akash NG systems. These moves aim to secure Armenia's airspace and enhance its military capabilities amid regional threats. The Akash 1S offers effective air threat protection with a range of 30 kilometers, while the MR-SAM provides immediate robust air defense, being already in production. Armenia continues to evaluate these systems to meet its strategic defense needs.

Adani Group plans to invest $2-2.5 billion in defense purchases over the next 2-3 years, focusing on drone technology firms in Bengaluru and Hyderabad for reconnaissance uses. Following the 2022 acquisition of Bengaluru-based Alpha Design Technologies, Adani has enhanced its aerospace capabilities. This includes collaborations with ISRO and DRDO on various projects like naval missiles and counter-drone technologies. Recently, Adani unveiled the Drishti 10 Starliner UAV, advancing its ISR platforms.

NewSpace Research and Technologies, in collaboration with CAIR, DRDO, has developed an autonomous drone for indoor environments under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme. This cutting-edge UAV excels in zero-light conditions and can autonomously navigate various indoor scenarios. The project supports diverse applications such as search and rescue, surveillance, and hazardous environment exploration, advancing unmanned aerial technology towards fulfilling the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' vision.

AVPL INTERNATIONAL announced its VIRAJ drone has earned dual certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), enabling its entry into the European market. The certification confirms the drone’s adherence to top safety and performance standards, facilitating its integration into European airspace. Designed for agricultural efficiency, the VIRAJ features twin batteries, a 10-liter tank, and a seed dispenser, covering 3-4 acres per charge.

ISRO has successfully completed the third and final Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Landing Experiment (LEX-03) on June 23, 2024, at Chitradurga, Karnataka. The mission, involving the autonomous landing of the winged vehicle 'Pushpak,' demonstrated advanced guidance algorithms and robust flight system reusability under challenging conditions. This milestone, achieved in collaboration with multiple national defense and aerospace agencies, solidifies ISRO's capabilities in reusable space technology.

As part of the Aurangabad Smart City Project, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Police have integrated drones into their command control center to boost security under the Safe City Project. The initiative, which aims to maintain peace and enhance quick response capabilities, involves dedicated squads at 17 police stations and headquarters operating the drones. Footage from these drones is monitored in real-time at the police commissioner’s office, aiding in various operations from traffic management to search and rescue.

Anadrone Systems Pvt Ltd has partnered with US-based Ocean Aero Inc to bring the innovative Triton Autonomous Underwater and Surface Vehicle (AUSV) to India. The Triton, capable of operating both underwater and on the surface, will serve multiple roles including maritime domain awareness, ISR missions, and environmental monitoring. It features solar power, advanced sonar systems, and can operate autonomously for up to 30 days, enhancing India’s maritime capabilities and operational efficiency.

Post Critical and Emerging Technology talks in New Delhi, India and the US have made significant strides in defense collaboration. Discussions focused on India’s planned $4 billion acquisition of MQ-9B Sky Guardian drones, enhancing maritime security, and the India-US Defense Industrial Cooperation. National Security Advisors Ajit Doval and Jake Sullivan also stressed the importance of securing sensitive technologies.

Srinagar has been designated a 'Temporary Red Zone' for drones in anticipation of PM Narendra Modi's visit for International Yoga Day on June 21. The Srinagar Police will enforce strict regulations against unapproved drone activities under the Drone Rules, 2021. The main celebrations will take place at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre, with Modi leading the event following his recent inauguration for a third term.

The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has launched a tender for a comprehensive 3D drone survey to aid the Revised Urban Master Plan-2041. Covering 1240 sq. km, the survey will generate a base map, land use map, ortho-rectified images, and digital elevation models to inform the city’s development strategies. The survey aims to create a realistic 3D representation of Bangalore, addressing the needs of its rapidly expanding population and infrastructure. This effort involves significant stakeholder consultations and will eventually be submitted to the government for approval.

The Indian Army has acquired the first batch of Nagastra-1, a domestically produced man-portable suicide drone, designed by Economic Explosives Limited. With over 75% indigenous content, this UAV enhances the army's shallow strike capabilities. Nagastra-1 features include precision GPS strikes, an endurance of 60 minutes, and the ability to carry a 1 kg warhead up to 15 km, extendable to 2.2 kg over 30 km in its upgraded version. Its unique parachute recovery allows reuse on aborted missions, providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional munitions.

Adani Defence and Aerospace has entered into a cooperation agreement with the UAE's EDGE Group to enhance defence capabilities across various domains including missiles, weapons, and air defense products. The partnership will also explore unmanned aerial systems, loitering munitions, counter-drone systems, unmanned ground vehicles, electronic warfare, and cyber technologies. This collaboration aims to establish R&D and production facilities in India and the UAE, targeting domestic and global markets.

IIT Kanpur and AVPL International have partnered to develop advanced drones to support large-scale landholders in India, Australia, Austria, and other European countries. This collaboration will involve joint research at IIT Kanpur’s Signal Processing in Networking (Spin) Laboratory under the guidance of Professor Ketan Rajawat. The agreement was signed by Professor Tarun Gupta and Preet Sandhuu, enhancing agricultural innovation and solutions.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India has partnered with Sagar Defence Engineering to develop underwater-launched unmanned aerial vehicles (ULUAVs), a groundbreaking initiative set to launch from submarines. Awarded through a competitive process involving 17 firms, the contract leverages DRDO's expertise from the Technology Development Fund (TDF) and aims to enhance covert surveillance capabilities by allowing submarines to deploy drones quickly and discreetly for monitoring threats.

Skye Air Mobility, a leading drone delivery logistics provider, has raised $4 million in a funding round led by Mount Judi Ventures, Chiratae Ventures, and others. The funds will enhance Skye Air's last-mile network in Gurugram and other cities, targeting sectors like healthcare, e-commerce, and quick-commerce. Founded in 2019 by Ankit Kumar and Chandra Prakash in Delhi NCR, the company also developed Skye UTM, an unmanned traffic management system to regulate drone traffic and ensure safety. This investment follows their previous $1.7 million round in November 2022.

Uttar Pradesh's Lucknow Electricity Supply Administration (LESA) is deploying drones to tackle electricity theft in areas with high-line losses. These drones operate during nighttime and early morning hours to monitor narrow lanes and gather evidence against power theft. Initially tested in Saadatganj and Shardanagar, the method led to legal actions against multiple offenders. This innovative use of technology aids in reducing confrontations during inspections and enhances the efficiency and safety of law enforcement efforts in urban management.

Rashtriya Raksha University in Gandhinagar has partnered with Brane Services Pvt Ltd to create a Drone Robotics Centre on campus. This collaboration will develop advanced drone and counter-drone technologies, with a pilot project aimed at enhancing local agriculture by monitoring farmlands and yields. Colonel Kanvaljit Singh of RRU noted the initiative's goal to boost farm productivity and reduce costs, potentially leading to state funding and national expansion.

Zen Technologies Limited has successfully delivered the Zen Anti Drone System with Hard Kill (Zen ADS HK) to the Army Air Defence College in Gopalpur, Odisha. This addition to India's defense arsenal enhances protection against drone threats and integrates with existing systems. Featuring an in-house developed Electro Optical Tracking System (EOTS) with day and thermal cameras, and a Laser Range Finder for all-weather auto-tracking, the Zen ADS HK builds on the success of previous systems deployed by the Indian Air Force.

Abu Dhabi marked a milestone in smart mobility with the first passenger-carrying drone trials in West Asia. Organized by Multi Level Group and Abu Dhabi Mobility, the trials during Abu Dhabi Mobility Week showcased a five-seater drone, achieving a record 123km flight, and a smaller two-passenger version. This event highlights Abu Dhabi’s leadership in smart transport and advanced infrastructure at Masdar City's SAVI cluster, reinforcing its status as a global hub for autonomous vehicles.

Fuselage Innovations and the Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative (IFFCO) have signed an MoU to transform farming in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. This initiative will cover over 500,000 acres using state-of-the-art drones, nano urea, and nano DAP for precision farming. The collaboration aims to boost crop yields, enhance efficiency, and promote sustainable practices, benefiting thousands of farmers and advancing the agricultural sector.

A team from IIT Dharwad, led by Sudheer Siddapureddy and Ameer Mulla, has developed an innovative fire rescue assistant drone. Supported by TiHAN-IIT Hyderabad and the Indian government, this state-of-the-art drone was showcased at the DDANFR 2024 workshop. The drone features thermal imaging to detect infrared radiation from flames and objects, helping firefighters identify hotspots, track fire spread, and assess flame intensity. Its compact design allows it to navigate indoor spaces and withstand high temperatures, making it invaluable for early fire detection and situational awareness in low visibility situations.

Six NATO countries—Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Poland, Finland, and Norway—are creating a "drone wall" to protect their borders, reports European Pravda. This initiative will span from Norway to Poland, employing drones for border monitoring and anti-drone systems to counter hostile activities.

A survey by Nexgen Exhibitions reveals India's AI mission will significantly enhance the drone sector. Covering 150+ companies in 11 cities, it highlights the potential for global leadership. AI integration will improve capabilities, efficiency, and intelligence, driving market growth. Government efforts and favorable policies are fostering manufacturing and job creation.

India's aviation regulator, DGCA, is gearing up for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air taxis with a 2026 launch targeted for Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. The initiative will see collaboration between Indian and US companies to establish infrastructure and regulations. While slightly more expensive than ride-sharing services, air taxis offer a faster and potentially congestion-free commutes within cities.

Aakashe (formerly Hella Infratech) has announced the launch of Bharat's first Instant Drone Imagery Platform, set to debut in May 2024 in Thane. This innovative platform provides immediate access to high-quality drone imagery, eliminating long waits. It features a subscription-based model, offering cost-effective solutions for all project sizes, and a customer-centric approach with flexible payment options. By democratizing access to aerial data, Aakashe aims to empower more projects to utilize drone technology. CEO & Co-Founder Ankush Sengupta emphasized the platform's goal to provide instant, high-quality imagery.

The Border Security Force (BSF) recovered two China-made drones carrying methamphetamine in Tarn Taran, Punjab on Thursday. The drones were found in separate incidents in the farming fields of CB Chand and Kalsian villages. This recovery highlights the BSF's vigilance in securing the border during India's general elections.

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is exploring the use of drones and tethered balloons to restore 5G connectivity during emergencies and natural disasters. Trials are planned in the coming months with a decision expected by June next year. A DoT official stated, “We aim to deploy temporary 5G networks using tethered balloons or drones to maintain mobile coverage during emergencies.” This approach is deemed practical for disaster scenarios leveraging existing telecom spectrum and sustainable power sources like solar. This initiative underscores DoT's commitment to ensuring resilient communication infrastructure in critical situations.

TechEagle, a top drone logistics startup in India, has secured funding to expand operations and introduce drones for longer-range deliveries. Founded by IIT Kanpur alumni, TechEagle is known for its Vertiplane X3 drone with a 100 km range and 5 kg payload capacity. They've partnered with clients like AIIMS, Swiggy, and the World Bank. With the Indian Drone Tech Market projected to reach $13 billion by 2030, TechEagle is positioned to be a leader in this growing industry.

Sridhar Vembu, cofounder and CEO of Zoho, has announced an investment in Tamil Nadu-based drone technology startup Yali Aerospace. Founded in 2022 by Dinesh Baluraj and Anugraha Ganesan, Yali Aerospace specializes in advanced drone technology for civil and military use. Based in Tanjavur, the startup focuses on pioneering aviation technology and BVLOS capabilities. Vembu praised the founders for returning from the Netherlands to their hometown to establish Yali Aerospace.

AVPL International and the Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) are set to transform agriculture with a pioneering drone spraying project over 50 lakh acres across Gujarat, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh. The collaboration aims to boost crop yields by up to 20% and minimize environmental impact, showcasing a commitment to innovative agricultural solutions that empower millions of farmers. Deep Sihag Sisai, Founder & Managing Director of AVPL, emphasized the potential of this technology to revolutionize farming practices.

Airbots Aerospace Private Limited's campaign, "Surya Krishi Kisan Drone Yatra," is transforming sugarcane farming in Maharashtra with sophisticated drone technology. Partnering with organizations like Maharashtra State Co-operative Marketing Federation Ltd and AgroStar, the initiative has been significantly bolstered by government support, offering up to 50% subsidy on drone purchases and an 80% subsidy specifically for Women Self Help Groups under the Namo Drone Didi Central Sector Scheme. This campaign aims to boost productivity, decrease the use of chemical fertilizers, and promote sustainable agricultural practices across the state.

Airbots Aerospace Private Limited's campaign, "Surya Krishi Kisan Drone Yatra," is transforming sugarcane farming in Maharashtra with sophisticated drone technology. Partnering with organizations like Maharashtra State Co-operative Marketing Federation Ltd and AgroStar, the initiative has been significantly bolstered by government support, offering up to 50% subsidy on drone purchases and an 80% subsidy specifically for Women Self Help Groups under the Namo Drone Didi Central Sector Scheme. This campaign aims to boost productivity, decrease the use of chemical fertilizers, and promote sustainable agricultural practices across the state.

The Ordnance Equipment Factory Hazratpur (OEF Hazratpur) has successfully deployed its high-altitude logistics drone, "AIRAWAT," in the Himalayas, marking a significant improvement in logistical operations within this challenging region. Equipped with advanced navigation systems and capable of carrying substantial payloads, AIRAWAT demonstrated its durability by flying at 5,000 meters near the Indo-China border. This deployment showcases AIRAWAT's capability to deliver crucial supplies autonomously over rough terrains, enhancing the safety and efficiency of supplying troops in remote areas.

Bangalore-based space tech startup GalaxEye has successfully conducted the world's first Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology tests on a High Altitude Pseudo-Satellite (HAPS) developed by the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL). This milestone enhances aerial surveillance capabilities with prolonged, all-weather imaging. The collaboration, reinforced by a MoU with NAL, aims to develop low SWaP SAR payloads, positioning India at the forefront of global SAR innovation and supporting the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative.

The Black Drongo was launched impressively at the Kothari Auditorium, DRDO Bhawan, during the UAS & C-UAS India 2024 event. This indigenous innovation highlights the commitment and expertise dedicated to advancing India's defense capabilities. It is designed to empower soldiers and position India as a leader in defense technology. Congratulations to the team on this significant achievement!

Airbots Aerospace Private Limited has been granted a design patent for its Surya Shakti 15L Smart Kisan Drone, a quadcopter featuring a four-layer copper track power distribution board capable of handling 500 amps. This drone boasts advanced thermal efficiency, a robust airframe made from aerospace-grade materials, and modular components for easy maintenance. This innovation is poised to revolutionize agricultural practices globally.

Delhivery is expanding into the drone sector with its new venture, Delhivery Robotics Private Limited. Focusing on UAV technology R&D, Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS), and comprehensive pilot training, the subsidiary aims for global influence, bolstered by the acquisition of US-based Transition Robotics. This move sets Delhivery on a path to innovate in shipment movement, remote sensing, and drone production and sales worldwide.

Loitering munitions, also known as suicide or kamikaze drones, bridge the gap between cruise missiles and unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs). Designed to hover around target areas and attack by crashing into targets with a built-in warhead, these drones offer the endurance of cruise missiles and the expendability of UCAVs. First used in the 1980s for SEAD roles, their recent deployment includes Russia's use of ZALA Lancet LM in Ukraine and India's introduction of the Nagastra 1, produced by Economic Explosives Limited, featuring a fire-and-forget mode and a 2.2 kg warhead with a range of up to 30 km.

The Indian Army has introduced the Sirin Hexadrone, a state-of-the-art hexacopter drone equipped with a machine gun, at a Western Command small arms firing event. This drone enhances precision in combat operations with advanced target detection and classification algorithms. With encrypted communications to thwart jamming and a 45-minute flight endurance, the Sirin can carry a diverse array of armaments, adapting to various combat scenarios.

In a significant advancement for India's defense sector, the Indian Army has introduced the Sirin Hexadrone, developed by Ikran Aerospace under the 'Make in India' initiative. This hexacopter drone, equipped with a machine gun, marks a new era in tactical operations. It recently completed rigorous trials, demonstrating capabilities in integrated small arms firing, enhancing soldier safety and strengthening national security. The Sirin Hexadrone features advanced target detection, integrated fire controls, and encrypted communications, making it a formidable asset in military operations.

NewSpace Research & Technologies (NRT) has set a new national record in India's defense sector by achieving a 27-hour endurance flight at an altitude of 26,000 feet with its solar-powered High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS) platform. Supported by the iDEX initiative of the Defence Innovation Organisation, this achievement showcases India's advancing capabilities in defense technology and highlights the potential of indigenous innovation in enhancing national defense.

Magellanic Cloud Limited has entered the Indian logistics market with a ₹43 crore investment in 45 CargoMax series drones. Under the leadership of Global CEO Joseph Sudheer Reddy Thumma, the company targets a 5% share of India’s USD 6 billion last-mile delivery market. With DGCA approval for its subsidiary Scandron, Magellanic Cloud is set to transform the industry with automated drone delivery services.

The National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC) has partnered with IIT Kharagpur to modernize mineral exploration using drone technology. This collaboration under the Ministry of Steel aims to enhance India's mining capabilities across minerals like Copper and Diamonds. The MoU, supporting drone-based exploration, was signed virtually, marking a significant advancement in the sector with IIT Kharagpur's expertise.

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is enhancing travel on upcoming greenfield access-controlled highways through the creation of "Drone Zones." This innovative initiative will incorporate advanced amenities like helipads and designated drone landing areas into new expressways, transforming the travel experience across India. These futuristic features aim to provide unparalleled convenience and services to road users.

Drone Destination has partnered with cooperative giant IFFCO to launch an ambitious agricultural spraying initiative that will cover 30 lakh acres across 12 states, with a revenue potential of Rs 240 crore. This collaboration aims to use drone technology to enhance farming efficiency and scalability. The drones will distribute IFFCO’s advanced agricultural products, significantly boosting crop productivity and operational efficiency.

Agritech startup BharatRohan Airborne Innovations has raised $2.3 million from Villgro Innovation Foundation, Caspian, RevX, Venture Garage, and others to enhance its drone technology for agriculture. The funding will support the development of advanced drones for precise crop monitoring and pesticide application, using a franchise model to expand the reach of its CropAssure service nationwide. This initiative aims to improve farming practices and increase resilience to changing weather patterns.

The Indian Army is set to deploy the Hermes-900 drone at Bathinda, Punjab, enhancing surveillance along the Pakistan border. This advanced drone will monitor vast areas, including deserts and regions north of Punjab, significantly upgrading India's defense capabilities. The induction highlights indigenous manufacturing under the 'Make in India' initiative.

IFFCO and Marut Drones are set to revolutionize farming across 5 lakh acres in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, enhancing sustainability and productivity. The partnership will utilize drones to optimize crop yields and reduce environmental impact, making advanced technology accessible and affordable for local farmers.

Coromandel International has significantly increased its investment in Dhaksha Unmanned Systems, boosting the startup's valuation by 3.4 times to Rs 2,143 crore. This follows a previous investment that gave Coromandel a 51% stake. Dhaksha specializes in drones for various sectors and saw its turnover rise to Rs 46.4 crore last fiscal year.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath recently witnessed a stunning drone light show at Dashashwamedh Ghat in Varanasi. The event featured 1000 drones, adding a spectacular visual to the Ganga Aarti ceremony.

Mahindra Group, alongside the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), initiates #DroneDidi Yojna, backed by PM Modi, to train 15,000 women in drone operations for agriculture. Pilot programs in Hyderabad and Noida will train 500 women with a DGCA-approved curriculum.

The police on Thursday deployed a drone in a village in Hoshiarpur district where some suspects had abandoned their car following a chase two days ago, as radical preacher remained untraceable.

The Mumbai-Goa national highway work will be completed by December this year, said Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday. He updated the public by sharing drone view pictures on his twitter profile.

Delivering a package has never been easier! American drone delivery company, Zipline, recently unveiled its lightweight autonomous home delivery drone. The company claims that its latest compact drones are capable of delivering goods to precise locations. And, that location could be on top of the customer’s dining table.

ICAR-Directorate of Onion & Garlic Research (DOGR),Rajgurunagar, will soon demonstrate the correct quantity and method of spraying chemicals on onion and garlic farms in the state using drones. The DOGR has received two drones from the central government for this purpose.