Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha emphasized the vast potential of drone technology in transforming various sectors and boosting both employment and productivity. Speaking at a gathering of officials, experts, and entrepreneurs, Saha noted how drones could revolutionize industries like agriculture, healthcare, infrastructure, and logistics. He highlighted the importance of modern technologies in enhancing the state’s economic growth and its alignment with the broader developmental goals set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, particularly under the HIRA model.
The HIRA model—standing for Highways, Internet, Railways, and Airway—has been pivotal in bringing rapid development to the Northeast region, including Tripura. Saha noted that the region’s infrastructure has been witnessing considerable improvements, positioning it as a strong contender for economic growth. Now, with the integration of drone technology, the state is poised to further enhance its development trajectory.
Saha mentioned that drones would contribute immensely to agriculture by enabling precision farming, aerial surveys, and even the spraying of fertilizers and pesticides. This would significantly reduce labor costs while increasing productivity and yields. The state’s farmers could benefit from real-time data collected through drones, leading to more informed decision-making and a reduction in the use of harmful chemicals. The ability to quickly assess crops’ health and gather data from hard-to-reach areas makes drones a powerful tool in modernizing agriculture.
Apart from agriculture, the healthcare sector stands to gain immensely from drone technology. Saha pointed out that drones could be used to deliver medical supplies, including vaccines, medicines, and blood samples, to remote areas in Tripura. This would address the logistical challenges that the region faces due to its geographical location and limited transportation infrastructure. During emergencies, drones could offer rapid delivery of life-saving materials, making healthcare more accessible and timely for people living in hard-to-reach areas.
Saha also highlighted the role of drones in improving infrastructure development and monitoring. Drones can assist in surveying and inspecting roadways, bridges, and other critical infrastructure, providing valuable data to ensure the safety and efficiency of these projects. With their ability to access difficult terrain, drones are a game-changer for infrastructure projects in the Northeast, where uneven landscapes often hinder conventional surveying methods.
The Tripura Chief Minister further emphasized how drones would help create new jobs in various sectors. By incorporating drone technology, the state would need skilled operators, technicians, and software developers. This would open up employment opportunities for youth, contributing to economic growth. He spoke about the importance of providing training and certification programs for individuals interested in entering the drone industry. This would help ensure that the workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to operate drones safely and efficiently.
In line with this vision, Saha announced that the state government would collaborate with private companies and academic institutions to introduce drone technology training programs. These initiatives would target not only young professionals but also those in rural areas, enabling them to tap into the growing drone industry. By offering these programs, Tripura aims to become a leading state in the country in terms of drone adoption and expertise.
The government’s investment in drone technology also aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s focus on leveraging technology for national development. The HIRA model has already been instrumental in enhancing connectivity in the region, and with the addition of drone technology, Tripura is positioned to benefit from the full spectrum of modern innovations.
Saha concluded by saying that with the potential of drone technology, Tripura could address many of its current challenges while creating a more sustainable and prosperous future. By embracing these advancements, the state will not only enhance productivity but will also empower its people, especially the youth, to be at the forefront of the technological revolution. As the state continues to grow and evolve, drone technology will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping its future.
The Chief Minister’s remarks underscore the state’s commitment to modernizing its sectors and positioning itself as a leader in embracing emerging technologies. Drone technology, with its wide-ranging applications, stands as a key enabler of this transformation.
