New Delhi, Feb 18 : In a special drive aimed at helping farmers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has flagged off 100 Kisan drones in different cities and towns flying to spray pesticides and other stuff at farms across India. In a video message during the drive, the PM on Friday said that Kisan drone is the beginning of new age revolution in the sector. “Few years ago, we used to think that drone is a system to fight against the enemies and it’s something military related.
“Today we are inaugurating Kisan drone facility in Manesar. It’s a new chapter in 21st century farming. “I firmly believe this initiative will not only prove to be a milestone in development of drone sector, but this will also offer doors of endless possibilities,” the PM said. He said that when it came to drones, the government didn’t waste any time in ambiguity and moved forward with a vision. The country can progress well if the policies of the government are in the right direction, he said.
“I am also told that Garud aerospace has set up a target of one lakh Made in India drones in next two years. This will open up new employment opportunities to several youths. “I congratulate the young team of Garud aerospace. Our youth and private sector have given a new strength to the reforms that have taken place in last few years,” he said. Modi said that the government has focused on technology and innovation in this year’s Budget. “The results are there to see. We are witnessing the diverse use of drones.
The entire country has witnessed the glorious show of 1000 drones during the Beating Retreat ceremony. “Today under the Swamitva Scheme, digital mapping of villages is being conducted with the help of drones. Drones are being used to distribute medicines. Vaccines are being carried to difficult areas. Pesticides are being sprayed with drones,” he said. The PM said that farmers will be able to carry their fresh produce — vegetables and fruits to the market with the help of high capacity drones in approaching times.
“Those working in fisheries sector, can send fish from their ponds to the market. If the produce of the farmers and fishermen reach the market in less time and with minimal damage, their income will also grow,” he said. “A new ecosystem of drone startups is being erected in India. More than 200 drone startups are working in the country. Very soon this figure will reach thousands which would open up lakhs of employment opportunities,” the Prime Minister said expressing happiness that many other companies are moving forward in this direction.
“I am confident that India’s growing capacity in the drone sector will give the world a new leadership in the sector,” he said. The Prime Minister assured the stakeholders of the drone sector, especially the youth that the government with its policies will help them achieve their targets.
