India’s drone dreams get wings as Manav Rachna University launches iFLY lab

Manav Rachna University has launched a cutting-edge drone innovation and training hub, AeroVision Drone Lab (iFLY), on 24 July 2025. Developed under the sponsorship of the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and in partnership with AVPL, the lab is positioned as a national blueprint for producing skilled talent in the fast-evolving drone ecosystem.

The inauguration was marked by the presence of top policymakers and education leaders. Prof. (Dr.) Anil Sahasrabudhe, Chairman of the National Educational Technology Forum (NETF), NBA, and NAAC, led the ceremonial unveiling. Prof. T.G. Sitharam, Chairman, AICTE, also joined the occasion to reaffirm AICTE’s commitment to immersive, skills-first learning.

Flying high on skills, tech, and cross-disciplinary learning

Targeted at students from Computer Science, Robotics, Mechanical, Electronics, and AI programs, the iFLY lab promises focused career paths in drone piloting, system servicing, battery management, and aerial intelligence. By blending theory with practical workflows, the lab seeks to create professionals capable of addressing India’s urgent needs in surveillance, smart infrastructure, precision agriculture, and disaster response.

The lab’s curriculum will be backed by real-world tools and certifications, brought in through Manav Rachna’s collaboration with AVPL, a drone manufacturer and AgriTech workforce developer. The setup promises students hands-on exposure to industry-aligned systems and design thinking from day one.

Not just a lab but a launchpad

Manav Rachna Educational Institutions (MREI) leadership emphasised that iFLY is a leap toward creating an applied knowledge ecosystem. Dr. Prashant Bhalla, President, MREI, said the lab reflects the university’s belief in pairing strong technical foundations with industry-ready skills.

Vice President Dr. Amit Bhalla added that drones represent the intersection of several engineering disciplines.

Prof. (Dr.) Deependra Kumar Jha, Vice Chancellor of Manav Rachna University, pointed to the lab’s potential to become a hub for applied research and entrepreneurship in aerial services.

A national mission takes off

Aligned with initiatives like Drone Shakti and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, iFLY is poised to support India’s push toward technological sovereignty and next-gen workforce development. With demand for drone-skilled talent rising rapidly, the lab will train youth not only to operate drones but to innovate, maintain, and integrate them into AI-driven systems.

The inauguration of iFLY is more than a campus event, it’s a signal that India’s drone ecosystem is ready for lift-off.