India’s First Drone-Based Cloud Seeding Trial Launched in Jamwaramgarh

Jaipur, Aug 2025 – Agriculture Minister Dr. Kirodi Lal Meena on Tuesday launched a drone-based artificial rain project in the Jamwaramgarh Dam area, marking the start of India’s first such cloud seeding trial. The initiative aims to revive the Ramgarh Lake, address water scarcity, and restore ecological balance in the region.

The event attracted a crowd far beyond expectations, which caused network congestion and a temporary GPS signal loss, forcing the drone into auto-landing mode. Once the crowd thinned, a successful demonstration was carried out in the presence of the minister, with the drone reaching 400 feet.

A team of scientists in Jaipur is conducting these trials using advanced drones, AI, and the ‘Hydro Trace’ platform, which integrates real-time data, satellite imagery, and sensor networks to identify the right clouds for seeding. The pilot project, starting August 12, will run for around 60 days.

In this process, drones release small quantities of sodium chloride or other safe seeding agents into the clouds, encouraging moisture particles to merge and form raindrops. The short-term impact will be immediate rainfall, while the long-term benefits are expected in improved lake water levels, groundwater recharge, and higher crop yields.

Dr. Meena assured that the method is environmentally safe and complies with international standards, posing no risk to humans, animals, or crops. If successful, this project could be extended to other drought-prone areas of the state and country, providing sustainable water sources for agriculture and significantly reducing the effects of drought.