Bengaluru: Karnataka is reportedly planning to introduce certified training courses for aero adventure sports pilots, making such training more accessible and affordable within India.
According to the department of youth empowerment and sports, formal training and certification in activities like paragliding, parasailing, hot air balloon and skydiving, are available only overseas and the cost runs into thousands of dollars, as reported by Deccan Herald on Monday.
This pioneering move by the state government aims to bridge the gap by providing quality training at affordable rates.
“The course fee, together with boarding and lodging in a foreign country, makes the whole programme expensive. We want to make it as affordable as possible,” DH quoted Naveen Raj Singh, Principal Secretary, Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports, as saying.
The popularity of aero adventure sports has soared across India in recent years. With numerous tourist destinations in the Himalayas, Pune, and the Nilgiris now offering these thrilling activities, there has been a significant rise in demand for trained pilots. Additionally, many young people are increasingly viewing these sports not only as a passion but as a promising career opportunity.
To meet this demand, the state government plans to launch the program through a public-private partnership (PPP). While a private partner will handle the training process, the government will be responsible for providing essential infrastructure at the Jakkur Aerodrome in Bengaluru.
In the program's first phase, pilots will receive training in paramotoring, hot air ballooning, powered hang gliders, and parasailing.
The initiative is currently awaiting approvals from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and other necessary clearances to move forward.
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Mangaluru: Two girl students drowned while bathing near the Kolyadakatta dam area of the Gundya river on Friday evening here in the Kadaba Taluk of the district.
The deceased have been identified as Arpita (15) and Sunita (21), both residents of Vimalagiri in Kutrupadi village.
According to reports, five girl students had visited the river along with their friends as it was a holiday. While bathing in the river, the two students reportedly entered a deeper portion of the water without realising the depth and began drowning.
Those accompanying them tried to rescue the duo, but were unsuccessful, leading to the tragedy.
After receiving information about the incident, Kadaba Police Station personnel visited the spot and conducted an inspection. The bodies were later recovered with the help of local residents.
