Chennai-based Kothari Industrial Corporation Ltd (KICL), a subsidiary of the DC Kothari Group, is embarking on a significant expansion of its drone business, with a planned investment of over ?150 crore in the coming years.
KICL has recently entered the agriculture drones sector with a fleet of drones specially designed for the precise application of nano-urea. To support this expansion, the company has established a dedicated drone division.
The next phase of KICL’s expansion strategy involves the establishment of a drone manufacturing unit with the goal of increasing its drone fleet to over 100 units. While the exact production details are still being finalized, the company expects to have the facility operational by the following year, as per their official statement.
KICL aims to offer drones that are entirely designed, developed, and manufactured in-house, underscoring their commitment to quality and innovation.
The company’s prior experience includes the establishment of the Kothari Drone Station for the Chennai City Police, showcasing their proficiency in utilizing drones for various applications, including crime prevention, search and rescue, traffic management, and disaster response.
Building on this expertise, KICL is now venturing into agriculture-related sectors, with a focus on the introduction of nano-urea into the farming process. Nano-urea has the potential to significantly enhance crop yields by meeting crop nitrogen requirements and boosting photosynthesis and root biomass.
KICL’s drone technology enables precise and efficient nutrient distribution, resulting in increased agricultural productivity and reduced environmental impact. The company is currently in the process of obtaining type certification for its drone model and is also seeking approval for a remote pilot training organization (RPTO) to impart drone skills in rural Tamil Nadu.
Beyond agriculture, KICL has ambitious plans to expand its drone services into various sectors, including mining, urban mapping, and applications in ports and waterways. This strategic move represents a substantial investment in India’s growing drone industry.
AFI
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