SRINAGAR: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) began a three-day training programme on “Drone Technology and Data Capturing for Natural Resource Management” at its Faculty of Forestry in Benhama, Ganderbal, aimed at equipping undergraduate students with practical and theoretical skills in drone-based applications for environmental and resource management.
The programme is being organised in collaboration with the Erasmus+ funded ENTER (Environmental Open Data for Engaging Curricula and Research Training) Project. It focuses on introducing students to the use of drones in forestry, precision agriculture, environmental monitoring and disaster assessment through classroom sessions as well as field demonstrations.
The initiative has been organised in line with the university’s emphasis on integrating emerging technologies into agricultural education. According to SKUAST-K, the programme is intended to strengthen experiential learning and prepare students with technology-oriented skills required in agriculture and natural resource management.
Inaugurating the programme, Dean Faculty of Forestry Prof. AH Mughal highlighted the expanding role of drone technology in sustainable natural resource management. He said drones have emerged as important tools for forestry, precision agriculture, environmental monitoring and disaster assessment, while encouraging students to develop expertise in the field because of its growing potential for innovation, employment and entrepreneurship.
The technical sessions include lectures by Prof. Akhlaq Amin Wani, Head of the Division of Natural Resource Management and programme coordinator, on emerging technologies in natural resource management and the applications of drone technology in the sector.
During the three-day programme, students will receive hands-on training on drone components, operational protocols, flight planning and aerial data acquisition. Live drone demonstrations will also allow participants to gain practical experience in operating drones under expert supervision.
SKUAST-K said the programme is part of its broader effort to promote technology-driven education and build capacity by exposing students to advanced tools that are increasingly being adopted in agriculture, forestry and natural resource management.
