Army’s QMTI launches drone and EV repair courses to empower disabled soldiers

Pune: Queen Mary’s Technical Institute (QMTI) has launched specialised courses for disabled soldiers to equip them with skills in drone technology and electric vehicle (EV) repair maintenance.The three-month courses aim to prepare wounded and disabled soldiers for employment opportunities and entrepreneurship after their retirement. “Considering the importance of drones today and the growing use of electric vehicles, we started these courses to ensure that our soldiers become self-sufficient and are able to begin their second innings successfully,” a senior Army officer associated with the institute told TOI.QMTI has signed an MoU with Savitribai Phule Pune University, which will certify the drone and EV courses. The institute has also partnered with private sector experts to provide hands-on training. “We have engaged industry professionals who will impart practical training to the soldiers attending these courses,” the officer said.To support the programme, QMTI has acquired 20 drones and several electric vehicles from private companies. It has also established a computer lab equipped with the required software and infrastructure.

Last year, QMTI introduced courses related to solar energy, following which several trained soldiers launched their own businesses. “Some of our trainees have established enterprises in the solar energy sector and are doing very well. We hope to achieve the same through these courses as well,” the officer added.Officials from the institute are also in discussion with organisations that may recruit the trainees.

“Our soldiers are disciplined, skilled and motivated individuals. Their attitude and commitment make them valuable assets for any organisation.. We are in contact with some private industries to explore opportunities for these soldiers once they complete their courses,” an institute official said.Located amid the serene surroundings of Range Hills in the Khadki Cantonment, QMTI has been a pioneering institution in vocational rehabilitation for disabled soldiers. The institute was shifted from Mumbai to its present campus in 1922 and has since trained thousands of servicemen in various professional and technical disciplines.