KICL Unveils Vision 2030 Roadmap With Focus On Agri-tech, AI & Drones

CW Bureau ·

Kothari Industrial Corporation Ltd. (KICL), a Chennai-based diversified business conglomerate, has unveiled its Vision 2030 roadmap, outlining plans to build businesses at the intersection of agriculture, artificial intelligence (AI), geospatial technology, drones, manufacturing and data analytics.

One of the South India’s most respected company said investments in precision agriculture, drone technology, geospatial intelligence, footwear manufacturing, design education and advanced technologies would help create long-term value while contributing to economic growth and employment generation.

Agriculture plans

India is entering a transformational phase driven by technology, manufacturing, infrastructure development and agricultural modernisation, according to the company.

“KICL is positioning itself to participate meaningfully in this growth story. Our investments today are aimed at building sustainable businesses that create value for farmers, customers, employees, shareholders and society at large,” said Chairman and Managing Director Rafiq Jinnah Ahmed.

Fertiliser partnerships

As part of its agriculture strategy, the company is exploring international partnerships and investment opportunities in fertiliser manufacturing and raw material sourcing, including discussions with partners in Qatar and Algeria, to strengthen long-term supply security and support future growth.

The initiative is aimed at securing raw material availability and supporting the company’s long-term expansion plans in the agriculture sector.

Precision farming

KICL is developing a farmer identity-linked precision agriculture platform that will provide customised recommendations based on crop type, soil condition, location and nutrient requirements.

According to him, the platform would help farmers make informed decisions on nutrient management and crop productivity using data-driven insights.

Drone expansion

Its Drone and Geospatial Division is undertaking large-scale drone surveys and geospatial projects across several States.

KICL is also expanding the use of agricultural drones for precision spraying of fertilisers, micronutrients, bio-stimulants and crop protection products to improve farm productivity, reduce input costs and minimise environmental impact.

Indigenous manufacturing

As part of its long-term strategy, KICL is investing in the development and manufacture of indigenous drone platforms.

The proposed initiative would support the government’s focus on domestic manufacturing while strengthening its presence in the emerging drone ecosystem.

Education venture

The company is also strengthening its presence in design education through a proposed joint venture with Italy-based IUAD, which is expected to commence programmes from August 2026.

KICL has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Directorate of Technical Education (DoTE) and partnered with institutions in Italy, Spain and France to enhance footwear-related skills among students and professionals.

Long-term vision

Apart from agriculture and technology, KICL operates food and hospitality brands including Una Villa Restaurant & Bakery, Una Villa Traditional and Pattukkottai Mess.

“Our objective is not merely to sell products or provide services. We are building technology platforms that improve agricultural productivity, support national infrastructure development, strengthen indigenous manufacturing and contribute to India’s growth story. We believe the future belongs to companies that successfully combine data, technology, manufacturing and execution excellence,” he said.