In an interview with TimesTech, Preet Sandhuu, Founder & MD of AVPL International, discusses how the company is transforming precision farming in rural India through drone technology. With innovations like the “Viraj” drone and a Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS) model, AVPL is empowering farmers to increase crop yields and adopt sustainable practices. Sandhuu highlights the company’s initiatives in skill development and creating entrepreneurial opportunities, particularly for rural youth and women.
Read the full interview here:
TimesTech: How is AVPL International using drone technology to transform precision farming and empower farmers in rural India?
Preet: AVPL International is revolutionising the landscape of precision farming by integrating cutting-edge drone technology into agricultural practices. We are enabling rural farmers to increase crop yields, reduce waste, and embrace sustainable farming methods. One of our key innovations is the development of the “Viraj” drone, which is specially designed for agricultural spraying and monitoring.
In addition to manufacturing, AVPL offers a Drone-as-a-Service (DaaS) model that provides farmers with access to advanced drone technology and expertise. We also focus on skill development by offering comprehensive training programs for farmers and agricultural professionals, helping them learn how to operate drones and become agri-entrepreneurs. Our collaborations with major organisations like DeHaat, IFFCO, and the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) have significantly amplified our reach and impact.
By offering precise crop monitoring and real-time data analytics, AVPL has helped improve decision-making processes for farmers. This approach has not only enhanced efficiency but also created economic opportunities through training programs and DaaS solutions, ensuring that traditional farming methods evolve with modern innovations.
TimesTech: Your entrepreneurial journey started with Startup Stairs. How did this inspire your focus on empowering the farming community through drones?
Preet: My journey with Startup Stairs provided the foundation for my passion for empowering communities through technology. When I joined AVPL International in 2016, my primary focus was on advancing drone technology, specifically in agriculture. Through Startup Stairs, I had already developed a keen understanding of the importance of building a skilled workforce that can embrace and innovate using new-age technologies.
At AVPL, we aim to incubate and nurture talent by offering aspiring entrepreneurs the mentorship and resources needed to bring their products to market. By focusing on building a robust pipeline of trained individuals and innovative technologies, we are helping both the farming community and startups grow. This vision has been integral to AVPL’s mission of fostering talent and empowering rural India through drones.
TimesTech: Can you share some success stories from AVPL’s drone and agri-focused entrepreneurial programs in rural areas?
Preet: AVPL International’s initiatives have led to numerous success stories across rural India. One of our most ambitious goals is to create 65,000 drone entrepreneurs over the next five years, empowering young people with the skills they need to become certified drone operators. We aim to connect millions of farmers with this transformative technology through our DGCA-certified training centres.
Our drone manufacturing unit has also played a vital role in transforming agriculture, producing advanced drones for spraying and seeding. This has led to significant efficiency gains for farmers, allowing them to cover more ground with less time and effort. Additionally, our agri-focused entrepreneurial programs, supported by the establishment of 50 Global Skill and Incubation Hubs, have provided rural communities with access to high-quality training and opportunities for global employment.
These initiatives have not only empowered individuals but also fostered economic growth in rural areas, creating new avenues for entrepreneurship and skill development.
TimesTech: Beyond agriculture, how do you see AVPL expanding drone technology into other industries like weather monitoring and soil health analysis?
Preet: While agriculture remains our primary focus, AVPL International recognises the immense potential of drone technology in other sectors. We are already exploring applications in weather monitoring, where drones can collect real-time data to track storms and provide early warnings. Similarly, drones can be employed for soil health analysis, offering precise mapping and nutrient assessments to help optimise farming practices.
In addition to these, we are looking at expanding drone services for infrastructure inspections and disaster response. For example, drones can be deployed to monitor and inspect structures, assess damage after disasters, and even assist in search and rescue operations. By forming strategic partnerships with meteorological departments and research institutions, AVPL aims to extend the benefits of drone technology to these critical industries, enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
TimesTech: What were the key challenges in expanding AVPL across 12 states, and how did you overcome them?
Preet: Expanding AVPL International across 12 states presented several challenges, but we navigated them through thoughtful strategies and collaboration. One of the biggest hurdles was scalability and maintaining a consistent level of quality across all locations. To address this, we developed modular training programs and standardised processes that could be easily replicated, ensuring quality training and services in every state.
Another challenge was regulatory compliance, as different states have different regulations regarding drone operations. We overcame this by closely collaborating with state governments, which helped us navigate these complexities effectively. Talent acquisition was another major concern. However, by partnering with local universities and training institutions, we were able to attract and retain skilled individuals who are critical to our growth.
By implementing these strategies, AVPL successfully expanded its presence in rural India while maintaining high standards of service and compliance.
TimesTech: How do you see drone technology, IoT, and robotics shaping future employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for rural youth and women in India?
Preet: The integration of drone technology, IoT, and robotics holds tremendous potential for creating employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, particularly for rural youth and women. For example, training programs for drone operations can open up new job markets for drone pilots and operators, providing them with in-demand skills.
In addition, IoT solutions, especially in smart agriculture and healthcare, are offering new ways for rural communities to engage with technology and drive innovation. Robotics, too, presents opportunities, particularly in sectors like agriculture and healthcare, where automation can improve efficiency and reduce labour costs.
Government initiatives supporting the growth of these technologies further enhance their potential for transforming rural entrepreneurship. By fostering a vibrant ecosystem where technology is accessible and supported, AVPL International is committed to empowering rural communities, ensuring that they benefit from the new opportunities these innovations create.
