In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering India’s armed forces personnel, BSES, in collaboration with the Army Welfare Placement Office (AWPO), has introduced a transformative Drone Pilot Training and Placement Program.
This initiative is set to provide ex-servicemen, personnel retiring within six months, and Veer Naaris with specialized skills, paving the way for lucrative careers in the rapidly expanding drone industry.
Bridging the Gap Between Military Service and Civilian Careers
With the drone sector witnessing exponential growth, this initiative acknowledges the unique challenges faced by veterans as they transition to civilian life. The program aims to seamlessly bridge this gap by offering comprehensive industry-specific training and strong placement assistance.
The Drone Pilot Training and Placement Program will train 250 veterans and 50 Veer Naaris over the next three years. (Theorist Photo)
The Drone Pilot Training and Placement Program will train 250 veterans and 50 Veer Naaris over the next three years. The initiative opens doors to diverse career opportunities in agriculture, infrastructure development, security, logistics, and other high-demand sectors that increasingly rely on drone technology.
Intensive Training with DGCA-Certified Instructors
The program is structured into small, focused batches of 20 participants per session, ensuring high-quality training and personalized attention. Over the 14-day intensive course, trainees will gain expertise in:
- Flight operations and drone maneuvering
- Payload management and data analysis
- Regulatory compliance and airspace safety
- Advanced drone models, including White Hawk, Spidex, Nakshay, and Bhiman
The training is conducted by certified instructors from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), and participants will be awarded the Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC)—a mandatory certification for commercial drone operations in India.
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Entrepreneurship and Employment Support
Beyond technical training, the program incorporates entrepreneurial development, equipping participants with the knowledge to start drone-based businesses. Specialized sessions cover:
- Regulatory compliance and licensing
- Business development and market strategies
- Hands-on industry internships to enhance real-world readiness
The initiative is being facilitated by the NGO partner, Sahayog Care for You, ensuring seamless coordination and support for participants.
Paving the Way for the Future of India’s Drone Industry
By aligning India’s military veterans with the fast-growing drone technology sector, this initiative not only provides them with a new career path but also strengthens India’s position as a global leader in drone innovation and operations.
With the drone economy projected to grow significantly, initiatives like this set a precedent for skill development, employment generation, and technological advancement in India.
