The Andhra Pradesh government has announced incentives of up to Rs. 5 lakhs for youth and entrepreneurs establishing startups in the drone sector. K. Dinesh Kumar, Managing Director of the AP Drone Corporation, revealed this initiative at an event held at Dhane Kula Engineering College in Vijayawada. Speaking at the Advanced Atal Faculty Development Program, themed “A Deep Dive into Autonomous Vehicle Theory to Practice,” Dinesh Kumar highlighted the vast opportunities in drone manufacturing and services.
He stated that the state, under the leadership of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, is making significant strides in the drone sector. The government aims to position Andhra Pradesh as the Drone Capital of India by providing substantial support to startups and technical institutions. Dinesh Kumar urged youth and students to seize these opportunities and actively participate in the state’s technological advancements.
To further bolster the drone industry, the state offers a 20 percent subsidy for industries in drone manufacturing and plans to establish a 300-acre drone hub in Oorvakallu. Dinesh Kumar pointed out the global drone industry’s rapid growth and its increasing application in public services, presenting lucrative career and business opportunities.
The government is also focusing on skill development by establishing Centers of Excellence in ITIs and polytechnics and introducing training programs in drone technology. These centers will equip students with practical skills and keep them updated on technological advancements in the field.
The event saw participation from prominent figures, including Dr. Pradeep from IIT Guwahati, Dhane Kula Engineering College Chairman Ravindranath Thakur, Organizing Secretary Bhavani Prasad, and Principal Dr. Ravi Kadiyal. With such initiatives, Andhra Pradesh is setting the stage to become a leading hub for drone technology in India.
