A new short-term skill development course, “Essentials of Space Technology in Agriculture Sector,” was launched on July 27, 2025, at Amity University, Noida, Uttar Pradesh. This initiative is a collaborative effort between the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe), the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET), and Amity University. The course aims to familiarize non-governmental entities and academia with the applications of space technology in agriculture.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by former Member of Parliament Shri Rajendra Agarwal as the Chief Guest. Dr. Vinod Kumar, Director of the Promotion Directorate at IN-SPACe, was also present. He emphasized the importance of academic-industry collaborations in raising awareness about satellite-based tools for modern agriculture. The course is designed to provide participants with a foundational understanding of how space-based applications can support and enhance farming practices.
In his keynote address, Dr. Vinod Kumar highlighted the growing role of space applications in strengthening India’s agricultural capabilities. He noted that space-based tools and geospatial data can help farmers monitor crop health, optimize the use of fertilizers and irrigation, detect pest infestations early, and manage fields with precision using GPS-guided machinery. Additionally, these technologies can aid in responding to weather risks and natural disasters, ultimately improving farm productivity and decision-making.
The course is part of IN-SPACe’s broader mission to support capacity-building and encourage sector-wide participation in the use of space applications in everyday economic activities. The week-long program, running from July 27 to August 1, 2025, will cover a range of topics, including remote sensing, satellite data analysis, and their direct application in crop monitoring and resource management.
This initiative underscores the potential of space technology to revolutionize the agricultural sector. By equipping participants with the knowledge and skills to leverage space-based tools, the course aims to create a pool of professionals who can address real-world challenges in agriculture. This collaboration between IN-SPACe, ISRO, NCVET, and Amity University represents a significant step towards integrating advanced technologies into traditional farming practices, thereby enhancing efficiency and sustainability in the sector.
The implications of this course are far-reaching. As participants gain insights into the practical applications of space technology, they are likely to become advocates for its adoption in their respective fields. This, in turn, could lead to a broader acceptance and implementation of these technologies across the agricultural sector, ultimately contributing to increased productivity and resilience in Indian agriculture.