Ludhiana: Punjab Agricultural University to launch India’s first AI school, drone training programme
PTC Web Desk: Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) is set to launch India's first Artificial Intelligence (AI) school within its campus, which is expected to commence in 2025. This initiative is aimed at revolutionising agriculture by integrating cutting-edge technology, particularly AI, to enhance farming practices. The university is also introducing a drone training programme to educate students and farmers in the field of agricultural engineering.
Dr Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice Chancellor of PAU, confirmed the establishment of the AI school, noting that it would be the first of its kind in India. He mentioned that collaborations with international universities and colleges were already in place to ensure the school offered global standards of education. Dr Gosal emphasised the importance of AI in agriculture, saying that the new school would play a vital role in enhancing the agricultural landscape of the state and country.
Besides, the university has completed preparations for its drone training programme, which will be conducted under the agricultural engineering department. The initiative is part of an effort to introduce drone technology, which is already widely used abroad, into the farming sector in India. The programme aims to make farming easier and more efficient. Dr Manjeet Singh, head of the agricultural engineering department, explained that drone technology would be a key tool in streamlining agricultural practices.
Dr Gosal highlighted that the state and central governments are providing full support for these initiatives, ensuring their successful implementation. He also shared that during his tenure as the head of biotechnology, a specialised School of Biotechnology was established at PAU, which contributed significantly to the university's growth.
The drone pilot training programme will begin with an initial batch of 20 students or farmers. The first session will span seven days, with a fee of Rs 35,000 plus GST. The training will provide participants with hands-on experience in operating drones for agricultural purposes. Even if only 10 students register, the session will go ahead, making it accessible to a wider range of individuals eager to adopt technology for improving farming practices.
- PTC NEWS