AWPO Initiative Trains Ex-Servicemen in Drone Technology

Rapid Summary

• Event: The Army welfare Placement Organisation (AWPO) concluded a Drone Pilot Training Program for ex-servicemen from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
• Duration & Dates: The programme ran for 10 days, from September 6 to September 20, 2025.
• Participants: A total of 32 retired personnel were trained in drone piloting.
• Training Details:

– Four days of theoretical sessions at AWPO’s Secunderabad office, focused on drone systems fundamentals.
– Simulator practice held at Keesara.
– Six days of field training on practical drone flying skills.

• Industry Exposure:

– Insight into industry applications and entrepreneurial prospects provided over two dedicated days during the course.

• Outcomes:

– Four companies conducted interviews with participants.
– Twelve trainees expressed interest in entrepreneurship through IPAGEUMA (India drone Academy), which will assist them in drone procurement, advanced training, and business progress.
– Three candidates opted for advanced training.
– Several participants were shortlisted for technical and administrative roles; a second round of interviews is scheduled.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The AWPO’s initiative to train ex-servicemen as certified drone pilots reflects India’s growing emphasis on skilling its workforce in emerging technologies such as unmanned aerial systems.With drones increasingly adopted across agriculture, logistics, surveillance, and infrastructure sectors, such programmes could unlock considerable career opportunities while benefiting industries requiring skilled operators.

This initiative also highlights a dual focus-employment generation through partnerships with private entities alongside enabling entrepreneurial ventures backed by institutions like IPAGEUMA (India Drone Academy). For ex-servicemen transitioning into civilian life post-military service,thes efforts appear promising both professionally and personally.

The participation levels observed-especially the interest shown toward entrepreneurship-suggest an encouraging trend where individuals are not just seeking placement but also exploring self-sustained models that might contribute to broader innovation ecosystems within India’s rapidly evolving technology landscape.

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