Drone News

India Gifts 12 Agricultural Drones to Fiji, Expands Bilateral Cooperation

Posted by

Pradipta V Mukherjee

August 27, 2025

On August 27, 2025

A major package of health and agricultural aid for Fiji has been announced by India, signaling the start of a new phase of bilateral cooperation. Twelve agricultural drones and two mobile soil testing labs will be donated by India as part of the project to encourage innovation and boost output in Fiji’s farming industry, especially in sugarcane production.

The announcement was made during a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka of Fiji, where the two leaders discussed their future priorities and reviewed their current cooperation. It is anticipated that the deployment of drones and mobile labs will enhance crop yields, modernize farming methods, and fortify Fiji’s efforts to ensure food security.

The collaboration goes beyond agriculture to include social development and healthcare. Along with the provision of dialysis machines, sea ambulances, and reasonably priced medications through Jan Aushadhi Kendras, plans were unveiled for the construction of a 100-bed super specialty hospital in Suva. To help people with mobility issues, India will also host a Jaipur Foot camp in Fiji.

The joint statement emphasized the bilateral cooperation’s wider reach. India attested to the sending of an ITEC specialist to the Fiji Sugar Corporation and the planning of specific training courses for workers in the sugar industry. This program highlights India’s contribution to technology transfer and capacity building for Fiji’s agricultural resilience.

To strengthen collaboration, a number of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were also signed. These include agreements for agricultural financing and rural development between the Fiji Development Bank (FDB) and India’s NABARD; standardization between the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and Fiji’s Department of National Trade Measurement and Standards; and skill development and human capacity building between India’s NIELIT and Fiji’s Pacific Polytechnic. Furthermore, HLL Lifecare Ltd. of India and Fiji’s Ministry of Health reached an agreement regarding the supply of medications under the Jan Aushadhi scheme, and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation (FCEF) formally collaborated to strengthen economic ties.

The leaders acknowledged the need for greater cooperation in trade, health, and education while reiterating the significance of agriculture and food security as fundamental pillars of cooperation. They discussed current events in the region and around the world, emphasizing their shared commitment to inclusive growth, climate justice, and raising the Global South’s voice.

It is anticipated that this extensive aid package and the number of Memorandums of Understanding will strengthen India’s strategic alliance with Fiji while offering real advantages in rural development, healthcare, and agriculture.

Pradipta V Mukherjee

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.