PM flags off 100 'kisan drones', says new drone start-up culture rising in country

Mr. Modi said his government will ensure that there is no impediment in the sector's development and has already undertaken several reforms and policy measures to facilitate its rise.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed confidence that India's rising capability in the drone sector will give the world a new leadership, as he flagged off 100 'kisan drones' in different parts of the country for spraying pesticides and other farm materials.

Mr. Modi launched the drones on Friday with officials describing it as a "very novel and exciting initiative" for farmers.

In his speech, the Prime Minister said a new culture of drone start-ups is getting ready in India. Their numbers will soon be in thousands from over 200 now, leading to the generation of employment opportunities on a massive scale.

He said his government will ensure that there is no impediment in the sector's development and has already undertaken several reforms and policy measures to facilitate its rise.

This is an example of how high the country can fly if policies are right, Mr. Modi said, noting that drones were mostly associated with the defence sector until a few years back.

This is a new chapter in providing modern farming facilities in the 21st century, and not only will it prove to be a milestone in the development of the drone sector but also open infinite possibilities, he said.