AI-powered policing takes off as Kalaburagi gets smart drones for a first in the State

The Hindu

3 days ago

As part of its commitment to strengthening law enforcement and equipping youth with future-ready skills, the State government has launched a drone-based public safety infrastructure for Kalaburagi.
The initiative marks the beginning of a technology-driven policing model and lays the foundation for a skilled drone task force across the State.
At a formal event in Bengaluru on Thursday, Home Minister G. Parameshwara handed over two advanced surveillance drones, Nimble-I and NS01, to Kalaburagi Police Commissioner S.D. Sharanappa.
These AI-powered drones, designed and manufactured in the State, are being deployed with support from the private sector under CSR initiatives.
'Our vision is to equip every police station in the State with drones. These drones will enhance the agility and responsiveness of our forces. Their indigenous design reflects how local innovation can serve public interest,' Dr. Parameshwara said.
The drones feature advanced surveillance capabilities such as day-and-night monitoring, automatic number plate recognition, crowd and vehicle tracking and rapid field deployment enabling tech-supported policing across districts, the Home Minister said.
Drone training
Joining the event, Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, IT & BT and Kalaburagi district in-charge Priyank Kharge announced that 500 youth in Kalaburagi will be trained in DGCA-certified drone operations.
The training will open up career opportunities in agriculture, logistics, disaster management and infrastructure monitoring.
'Our technological strength should become a catalyst for rural transformation and throw open opportunities. Drones are among the fastest-growing sectors globally. By training our youth in cutting-edge drone technology, we are preparing them for future jobs while fostering local innovation and tech-driven ecosystems,' Mr. Kharge said.
With projections suggesting over one lakh jobs in the Indian drone industry by 2026, the State aims to position itself not only as a user but also as a national hub for drone innovation and talent, he added.
'The State's leadership in aerospace, electronics and research and development provides a strong foundation for expanding skill development initiatives across districts. This initiative reflects our government's commitment to tech-enabled rural empowerment and makes Kalaburagi a model district where innovation, public service and youth empowerment converge to create a meaningful impact,' Mr. Kharge said.
The State continues to lead in adopting advanced technologies, building resilient infrastructure and creating job opportunities through inclusive and smart governance, he said.