SRM University-A.P., APDC sign MoU to boost drone technology, innovation

SRM University-A.P. and the Andhra Pradesh Drones Corporation (APDC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost drone technology, research, innovation, skill development and field-level applications across Andhra Pradesh.

The MoU was signed in the presence of Union Minister for Civil Aviation K. Rammohan Naidu and Kurnool MP B. Nagaraju Panchalingala, underscoring the growing role of drone technology in the State’s technology and innovation ecosystem.

SRM University-A.P. Registrar Vinayak Kalluri said drone technology was rapidly evolving and could transform sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, disaster management and healthcare. He said that the partnership would assist bridge academic expertise with regional and national development priorities.

Dean (Research) Ranjit Thapa said the collaboration would provide a platform for interdisciplinary research, drone component development and testing and technology demonstrations, particularly for applications addressing societal challenges.

Vice-Chancellor Ch. Satish Kumar described the MoU as an important milestone in the university’s efforts to build an ecosystem bringing together education, research, innovation and societal needs.

Centre for Drone Technology Coordinator Pranav R.T. Peddinti and Centre for Geospatial Technology Coordinator Harish Puppala said the initiative would focus on practical drone applications while strengthening training, research and field-level innovation.

APDC Managing Director Geetanjali Sharma, APDC Further CEO Praveen, Drone Federation of India President Smith Shah, and senior officials and faculty members from SRM University-A.P. attended the programme.

SRM University-A.P., through its Centres for Drone Technology and Geospatial Technology, has been developing capabilities in drone education, training and research. The university also offers a Minor Programme in Drone Technology and conducts awareness and skill-development programmes. Its research initiatives include drone-based applications in agriculture, infrastructure, disaster management, healthcare, medical delivery and advanced aerial mobility.