# Wish to see Palampur as new drone IT hub: CM Shri Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
# Making use of IT, Honourable CM Shri Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu addresses conclave via video conferencing
# Drone technology to help growth of agricultural sector in the region
The Hon'ble Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Shri Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, delivered valedictory address virually at the Himachal Drone Conclave 2023 on 5th July.
The conclave was organised by the Department of Digital Technologies and Governance, Government of Himachal Pradesh in association with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).
Due to unfavorable weather conditions, CM Shri Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu was unable to physically attend the event in Palampur. However, leveraging technology, he joined the conclave via video conferencing. During his address, he commended the industry present in Palampur for signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) worth Rs 200 crores, and expressed his vision of developing the region as a new IT hub. The Chief Minister assured manufacturers of essential resources to support this initiative. He emphasized the aerial capabilities of drones, highlighting their potential for innovation, informed decision-making, and their contributions to sectors such as agriculture, disaster management, and environmental conservation.
Shri Ashish Butail, Chief Parliamentary Secretary of the Government of Himachal Pradesh, expressed eagerness for government reforms and the initiation of drone programs within the municipality. He underlined the importance of fully leveraging the potential of drones to drive positive change. He emphasized the need for streamlined regulations and policies to ensure the safe and responsible use of drones in various sectors, including agriculture, disaster management, and surveillance. Additionally, he highlighted the significance of fostering partnerships with technology companies and research institutions to foster innovation and maximize the benefits of drone technology for the state's development.
Shri Gokul Butail, Principal advisor IT and innovation, urged departments to extensively utilize drones for various purposes and emphasized that drones should not be treated as mere symbolic objects. He also highlighted the future prospects of drone technology, particularly in the areas of drone pilots, service and maintenance, which could lead to increased employment opportunities.
Dr Abhishek Jain, IAS, Secretary, Digital Technologies and Governance, Govt of HP, emphasized the immense potential that drones hold in revolutionizing the agriculture sector. Given the unpredictable weather conditions prevalent in mountainous regions, Dr. Jain highlighted how drone technology can play a crucial role by offering real-time data and monitoring capabilities, leading to substantial transformations. Drones, with their ability to facilitate precision farming, hold the promise of revolutionizing agricultural practices in the region. Additionally, they can contribute to soil health scanning, enabling farmers to make informed decisions regarding crop management and fertilization. Furthermore, the implementation of drones can significantly reduce chemical wastage during field spraying, promoting sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices. Concluding his address, he added, “Next Conclave in this series would be on – AI for Improving Governance in Himachal Pradesh.”
Prof HK Chaudhary, Vice-Chancellor of CSK HP Agricultural University, stressed the massive potential of drones in the agriculture sector. He mentioned the unpredictable weather conditions in the mountains and how drone technology can provide real-time data and monitoring to bring about significant changes. Drones can facilitate precision farming, soil health scanning, and reduce chemical wastage during field spraying.
The state government also presented the investment policy and encouraged industry to setup facilities in the state.
The grand event saw the participation of all government departments of HP, educational institutions like IIT Ropar. IiT Mandi, NIT Hamirpur, IIIT Una, Technical institutions of HP. The event was attended by Progressive farmers associ2023ated with HP Agriculture University, students of surrounding schools and ITIs along with general public and stakeholders from various parts of the country too.
The event witnessed active participation of many companies dealing in Drone manufacturing and Softwares. 26 companies showcased their products and technology at the Drone Exhibition pavilion which was a centre of attraction during the 2 Day Drone Conclave.