Use drones to full potential: Expert

Nagpur: There is a misconception about drones that they are banned in India. In reality, its use is just restricted, said Lt Cdr John Livingstone, founder of Indian Institute of Drones, New Delhi, on Saturday.
The city centre will be the only of its kind in central India for drone pilot training. Also present on the occasion was principal of Gaikwad Patil Group Institutions Prashant Kadu and training head at IID Gagandeep Maan.

Talking at the launch of the Nagpur chapter of Delhi-based institute at Somalwada campus, Livingstone said, “You can fly and own drones with a written permission from the police department of the area. You don’t even need to do it if you are flying a drone without a camera up to 250 grams at a maximum height of 200ft.”

Talking about career prospects in this field, Livingstone said, “These pilots are not restricted to flying drones, but are in high demand in aviation industry as well. Youngsters only have to be passionate and sharpen their skills to land a great opportunity.”

In his speech, Kadu said, “What task humans takes days or even months to complete, drones can bring it to half. SIM cards and GPS trackers make the impossible jobs possible, like locating dead bodies that are washed away or carrying out surveys in forests. It is a multidisciplinary technology that needs to be used to the fullest.” He said people need to be educated about the pros of a drone, and that it is not as hazardous as it is believed to be.

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