Drone for Cloud Seeding: India’s First Preparatory Drill at Ramgarh Dam
For decades, cloud seeding has been explored worldwide as a way to combat drought and ensure water security. Traditionally, aircraft have been used to disperse silver iodide or other seeding agents into clouds to induce rainfall. But with technological advancements, drones for cloud seeding are emerging as a more efficient, safer, and cost-effective solution.
Recently, at Ramgarh Dam near Jaipur, Rajasthan, scientists conducted a drone-based preparatory drill for artificial rain induction, making it the first attempt in India to explore UAVs for cloud seeding. This development signals a major milestone for India’s agricultural and climate resilience strategies.
The Preparatory Drill at Ramgarh Dam
On August 16, 2025, a drone was deployed over the Ramgarh Dam, a reservoir that has been dry for nearly 20 years.
Key Highlights:
- Operator: US-based climate engineering company Accel1 in partnership with the Rajasthan Agriculture Department.
- Duration: The drone flew for 35 minutes.
- Coverage: It mapped and collected atmospheric data across a 25 km radius.
- Purpose: To assess meteorological conditions for artificial rain induction.
Local BJP MLA Mahendra Meena, along with villagers and government officials, attended the drill. The exercise was part of a pilot project aimed at evaluating the feasibility of using drones for cloud seeding in Rajasthan.
Why Cloud Seeding Matters for India
India faces recurring challenges of water scarcity, droughts, and uneven rainfall patterns. Reservoirs like Ramgarh Dam, once a lifeline for Jaipur, have been dry for decades.
- Agriculture Impact: Farmers rely on monsoon rains, and delayed rainfall leads to massive crop losses.
- Urban Needs: Cities like Jaipur face growing demand for drinking water, which reservoirs like Ramgarh could supply if replenished.
- Climate Change: Increasing unpredictability in rainfall patterns demands innovative interventions.
This is why cloud seeding through drones could become a game-changer.
Drones vs. Aircraft in Cloud Seeding
Traditionally, cloud seeding in India (like in Kerala) has been carried out using aircraft. However, using drones for cloud seeding offers several advantages:
Benefits of Drone-Based Cloud Seeding
- Lower Cost: Drones are significantly cheaper to operate compared to manned aircraft.
- Higher Precision: UAVs can fly closer to target cloud formations and deliver seeding agents more accurately.
- Reduced Risk: Eliminates the need for human pilots in challenging weather conditions.
- Scalability: Drones can be deployed in multiple locations simultaneously for faster coverage.
- Real-Time Data: Advanced drones are equipped with sensors that provide immediate meteorological data for decision-making.
Challenges in Using Drones
Signal Interference: As seen on August 12, the drill was disrupted due to mobile network congestion, which blocked drone signals.
Payload Limitations: Drones can carry less seeding material compared to aircraft.
Weather Dependency: Requires precise cloud formation for successful seeding.
What Happened at Ramgarh Dam Before the August 16 Flight?
- July 30: The first attempt was scheduled but postponed.
- August 12: A large crowd gathered at the dam. Conflicting mobile signals interfered with the drone’s connectivity, preventing the launch.
- August 16: The successful preparatory drill was conducted.
- Agriculture Minister Dr. Kirodi Lal Meena announced that the drill will continue for the next two months as part of ongoing trials.
India’s First Drone for Cloud Seeding: A Historic Moment
While Kerala pioneered artificial rain in India using aircraft, this is the first time drones have been used for cloud seeding in the country.
This pilot project is not just about Ramgarh Dam but about shaping India’s water security policies. If proven successful, cloud seeding with drones can be deployed across drought-prone states like:
- Rajasthan
- Maharashtra
- Karnataka
- Telangana
Applications of Drone-Based Cloud Seeding Beyond Rajasthan
This historic attempt at Ramgarh showcases the transformative power of UAVs in climate engineering. Drones are no longer limited to surveillance, mapping, or delivery. They are becoming active agents of climate intervention.
At Mavdrones, we believe that:
- UAVs will soon play a pivotal role in climate resilience strategies.
- Drone for cloud seeding can help India address water scarcity sustainably.
- With further R&D and regulatory support, drones can scale up to cover larger areas.
Conclusion
The drone-based cloud seeding drill at Ramgarh Dam is more than just a technological experiment — it’s a ray of hope for millions affected by drought. As the trials continue, India stands at the cusp of a climate technology breakthrough, one that could secure water resources for future generations.
At Mavdrones, we remain committed to showcasing how drones are redefining industries, agriculture, and even weather management. The future is clear — drones for cloud seeding will become an integral part of India’s water security roadmap.
CEO, Mavdrones
Pradipta V Mukherjee is the visionary CEO of Mavdrones & Drone Pathshala, driving innovation and growth in the drone industry. With a passion for advanced technology, he leads the company's strategic direction, ensuring Mavdrones stays at the forefront of drone solutions. Under his leadership, Mavdrones has achieved remarkable success, including winning the 'Best Innovation and Technology in Drone Industry' award from ASSOCHAM. Pradipta is committed to revolutionizing the industry through advanced UAV technology, fostering a culture of excellence and forward-thinking within the organization.
