SRM University-A.P. and Andhra Pradesh Drones Corp sign MoU to boost drone technology
SRM University-A.P. and the Andhra Pradesh Drones Corporation (APDC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen drone technology, research, innovation, skill development, and field-level applications across the state. The agreement was signed in the presence of Union Minister for Civil Aviation K. Rammohan Naidu and Kurnool MP B. Nagaraju Panchalingala, underscoring the growing importance of drones in Andhra Pradesh's technology ecosystem.
The partnership aims to link academic research with real-world needs in sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, disaster management, and healthcare. SRM University-A.P. Registrar Vinayak Kalluri noted that drone technology is rapidly evolving and has the potential to transform these sectors. He said the collaboration would help bridge academic expertise with regional and national development priorities.
Dean (Research) Ranjit Thapa explained that the MoU would create a platform for interdisciplinary research, drone component development, testing, and technology demonstrations. The focus will be on applications that address societal challenges, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas of Andhra Pradesh.
Vice-Chancellor Ch. Satish Kumar described the MoU as an important milestone in the university's efforts to build an ecosystem that brings together education, research, innovation, and societal needs. The university already runs Centres for Drone Technology and Geospatial Technology, which have been working on drone-based solutions for agriculture, infrastructure, disaster management, healthcare, medical delivery, and advanced aerial mobility.
The Centre for Drone Technology Coordinator Pranav R.T. Peddinti and Centre for Geospatial Technology Coordinator Harish Puppala stated that the initiative would focus on practical drone applications while strengthening training, research, and field-level innovation. The university also offers a Minor Programme in Drone Technology and conducts awareness and skill-development programmes for students and professionals.
APDC Managing Director Geetanjali Sharma, APDC Additional CEO Praveen, and Drone Federation of India President Smith Shah attended the signing ceremony, along with senior officials and faculty members from SRM University-A.P. The presence of these stakeholders reflects the collaborative effort needed to advance drone technology in the state.
India's drone sector has seen significant policy support in recent years, with the central government promoting drones for agriculture, logistics, and surveillance. Andhra Pradesh, with its focus on technology hubs and industrial corridors, is positioning itself as a key player in this domain. The MoU between SRM University-A.P. and APDC is expected to contribute to skill development and create opportunities for students and researchers to work on drone applications relevant to the region.
Both institutions have expressed confidence that this partnership will lead to tangible outcomes, including research publications, prototypes, and industry collaborations. As drone technology becomes more accessible, such academic-government partnerships are likely to play a crucial role in ensuring that its benefits reach communities in a responsible and sustainable manner.
