ITANAGAR, Jun 27: The Arunachal Pradesh Science Centre, a unit of the AP State Council for Science and Technology (APSCS&T), in collaboration with the Centre for Scientific Outreach, New Delhi, organized a one-day aviation and drone technology outreach programme on Saturday to expose students to emerging developments in aerospace, aviation and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from around 100 students from different schools across Itanagar Capital Region, NCC cadets of 1 AP Battalion NCC from RGGP, internship trainees from DNGC, and accompanying teachers.
Addressing the gathering, APSCS&T Chairman Dr Tage Taki encouraged students to make optimum use of the scientific infrastructure available in the state. Highlighting the transformative potential of drone technology, he said UAVs could play a crucial role in delivering life-saving medicines and essential supplies to remote and inaccessible areas of Arunachal Pradesh.
Dr Taki urged students to cultivate a solution-oriented mindset and explore innovative approaches to address real-world challenges. He also encouraged them to utilize the Reverse Engineering Facility at the Centre of Excellence for Science, Technology, Innovation and Research (CoE-STIR), emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning and curiosity.
Welcoming the participants, AP Science Centre Curator Vivek Kumar stressed that scientific outreach must extend beyond classrooms and reach grassroots communities. He observed that drone technology holds immense significance for a geographically challenging state like Arunachal Pradesh, particularly in improving connectivity, development and public service delivery.
The programme featured expert-led sessions on emerging technologies and career opportunities in aviation and aerospace. Vaibhav Varun, national coordinator of the National Aviation Olympiad at the Centre for Scientific Outreach, delivered a detailed presentation on drone regulations, certification procedures, aviation safety, employment opportunities and future prospects in the aviation sector.
Participants also engaged in an interactive question-and-answer session that provided valuable insights into careers in aerospace and drone technology. A live drone demonstration was conducted at the Parade Ground, IG Park, by Gajendra Kumar Gangwar of the North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR), Guwahati. Students were introduced to UAV fundamentals, DGCA Drone Rules 2021, sensor payloads, calibration techniques, safety procedures and flight simulation exercises.
The outreach programme successfully bridged the gap between theoretical science education and practical technological applications, inspiring students to explore emerging opportunities in aviation, aerospace and drone-based innovation.