Amethi: In a significant step toward advancing aviation education and emerging technologies, Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University (RGNAU) and Indian Institute of Technology Ropar signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly launch a Postgraduate Diploma Programme in UAV Operations and Drone Technology.
The agreement was formalized during the visit of IIT Ropar Director Rajeev Ahuja to the RGNAU campus, where a special academic programme was organized to mark the occasion.
RGNAU Vice-Chancellor Bhrigu Nath Singh, along with faculty members and university officials, welcomed Prof. Ahuja to the university. The two academic leaders also participated in a tree plantation drive on campus, reaffirming their commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
Addressing a meeting held in the university boardroom, Prof. Bhrigu Nath Singh described the proposed joint programme as a forward-looking initiative designed to address future technological and industrial challenges. He also presented the university’s Vision-2047 roadmap, highlighting RGNAU’s future development plans, academic expansion, infrastructure projects, and strategic goals.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Rajeev Ahuja emphasized the value of collaboration between premier educational institutions. He said that when two institutions of excellence work together, they create new benchmarks in academic and technological innovation.
“Research and innovation are the need of the hour. This joint programme will play a significant role in positioning India as a leader in drone manufacturing and unmanned aerial systems,” he said. Prof. Ahuja also expressed confidence that RGNAU would emerge as a prominent national centre for research, innovation, and technology-driven education in the coming years.
The programme included presentations by various academic and administrative departments of the university. Dean of the School of Management Studies, Prof. Pankaj Singh, highlighted the achievements and activities of his faculty. Dr. Kaushalendra Dubey, Coordinator of Aerospace Engineering, presented the department’s academic and research initiatives, while Dr. Shriman Narayan from the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering outlined departmental accomplishments and future plans.
University Librarian Dr. Anand Hindolia showcased the modern facilities available at the university library, and Dean of Student Welfare Dr. Anoop Kumar provided an overview of student support services and welfare initiatives.
The MoU was formally signed by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Bhrigu Nath Singh and IIT Ropar Director Prof. Rajeev Ahuja, followed by the exchange of official documents. The ceremony was attended by IIT Ropar Dean (Undergraduate Studies) Dr. Shashi Shekhar Jha and Dr. Manish Kumar, along with RGNAU’s Registrar, Controller of Examinations, deans of various schools, faculty members, and administrative officials.
The collaboration is expected to provide a major boost to skill development, research, and innovation in drone technology, unmanned aerial systems, and advanced aviation education. The joint programme aligns with India’s growing focus on emerging technologies and is expected to contribute significantly to the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat by creating a highly skilled workforce in the rapidly expanding drone and aviation sectors.
