Drone technology is emerging as a key tool for improving governance, development planning and employment opportunities in Nagaland, with Governor Nand Kishore Yadav calling for greater use of modern technology and geospatial systems across the state.
Yadav made the remarks during his visit to the Nagaland GIS and Remote Sensing Centre (NGISRSC) and the Drone Centre of Excellence in Kohima on September 7. Both institutions function under the Planning and Transformation Department. The governor was briefed on Nagaland’s expanding capabilities in drone applications, geospatial mapping, research and specialised training.
Governor backs technology-led governance
Yadav highlighted the potential of drone technology in areas such as agriculture, infrastructure, disaster management, environmental monitoring, cinematography and geospatial mapping. He stressed that modern technology and innovation can help improve governance, accelerate development and support more effective decision-making.
The governor also emphasised the importance of preparing young people for a rapidly changing employment landscape. He encouraged the Drone Centre of Excellence to strengthen its activities and capabilities while creating opportunities in employment, entrepreneurship, start-ups and public-sector applications.
Yadav also linked the initiative with the broader vision of a self-reliant India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Viksit Bharat 2047 goal. He appreciated the work being undertaken by the NGISRSC and assured support for strengthening its technological capabilities.
Nagaland expands drone skills and training
Nagaland’s drone programme has developed beyond basic aerial mapping and surveying. Officials said the state initially established a Drone Unit for mapping, surveying and geospatial data acquisition. It later expanded into research and development, collaboration with government departments and specialised UAV training.
The Drone School has now evolved into a Centre of Excellence designed to develop skilled manpower and build career opportunities around emerging technologies. Its programmes include DGCA-compliant Remote Pilot Certificate courses for small and medium-category drones, along with training in First Person View operations, drone repair and maintenance, GIS-based drone surveying and mapping, cinematography and avionics.
During the governor’s visit, training completion certificates were handed over to 10 candidates. Under the Nagaland Skill and Entrepreneurship Development Mission, 70 candidates have been selected for various drone-related courses, while 72 trainees have already completed programmes at the Centre.
Development Commissioner Y. Kikheto Sema said the Northeast is expected to require around 500 drone pilots or operators, creating a potential employment avenue for Naga youth. The centre is also expected to obtain a DGCA licence to conduct drone pilot training.
Geospatial technology strengthens planning
The push for drone technology is closely linked with Nagaland’s wider use of geospatial data for evidence-based planning. Earlier this year, the state highlighted the use of geospatial systems, drones, artificial intelligence and remote sensing in village resource mapping, urban planning, watershed studies, disaster management and landslide monitoring.
The technology has also been used to support PM GatiShakti planning, traffic management, medical drone delivery and drone-based agriculture. More than 1,300 villages have reportedly been mapped, reflecting the growing role of digital mapping in development planning across the state.
Nagaland has also been working to expand inter-departmental access to spatial information. A 2025 state-level workshop encouraged departments to integrate geospatial resources into projects, government schemes and service delivery, with the objective of moving towards real-time and scientifically informed governance.
Plans for an advanced drone hub
The state’s future plans point towards a larger technology ecosystem. The proposed State Geospatial Campus at Tuoliezou in Kohima and an Advanced Drone Technology and UAV Innovation Hub are expected to focus on technologies such as AI-enabled drones, LiDAR, multispectral and thermal sensors and autonomous systems.
The proposed facilities are also expected to include fabrication, prototyping, repair and manufacturing capabilities. Their potential applications extend to disaster response, agriculture, healthcare and infrastructure.
The expansion could help Nagaland move from being primarily a user of imported drone solutions to developing stronger local expertise and innovation capabilities. It could also create opportunities for start-ups and technology-driven businesses among young people.
With drone technology increasingly integrated into mapping, monitoring and public services, Nagaland is seeking to make digital tools a more central part of governance. The governor’s latest visit has reinforced the state’s emphasis on combining geospatial intelligence, skilled manpower and innovation to support development while opening new technology-based career opportunities for its youth.