Source: PIB
Context: The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and Drone Federation of India launched the National Innovation Challenge for Drone Research (NIDAR) under the SwaYaan initiative.
About NIDAR:
- What it is:
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- National Innovation Challenge for Drone Application and Research (NIDAR).
- Part of:
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- Launched under the SwaYaan – Capacity Building for Human Resource Development in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) initiative.
- Ministry:
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- Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in collaboration with Drone Federation of India (DFI).
- Aim:
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- Encourage research, innovation, and real-world drone applications in disaster management and precision agriculture.
- Engage over 100 student teams for developing autonomous drone solutions.
- Foster startup incubation, cloud credits, software support, and internships.
About SwaYaan Initiative:
- What it is:
-
- A comprehensive capacity-building program for drone and allied technologies in India.
- Launched in: Approved by MeitY in July 2022.
- Ministry: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
- Aim:
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- Train 42,560 participants to create a skilled drone technology workforce.
- Features:
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- Implemented via a hub-and-spoke model with participation from 30 top institutions including IISc, IITs, IIITs, NITs, CDAC, and NIELIT.
- Focus areas include Drone Electronics, GNC Algorithms Simulation, Aeromechanics, Drone Applications, and Allied UAS Technologies.
- Initiation of minor degree programs, bootcamps, and workshops.
- Active industry participation through challenges and innovation platforms.
