Drones rise over grassland the Red Army once crossed

What the report says

In a Xinhua report republished by The Independent Uganda, drones are being used more widely across the grasslands of Ruoergai County in Sichuan Province, southwest China, where a new low-altitude economy is taking shape. The story focuses on Ngorcog, a 25-year-old Tibetan woman who moved from studying music to becoming a licensed UAV pilot after professional training and certification. Xinhua said she now works in an area where drone logistics is increasingly common, especially for transport and emergency support.

The report places this change against the region’s deeper history. Ruoergai was crossed by the Red Army during the Long March more than 90 years ago, and the area remains culturally significant for local Tibetan communities. It is also physically challenging: high altitude, harsh weather and difficult terrain can cut off roads and isolate villages. According to the report, drones are being used to deliver medicines, food and clothing when snow, ice or landslides block access.

Xinhua also described a recent earthquake relief drill in which drones helped with reconnaissance and airdropped supplies to simulated stranded areas. Local officials and company representatives said the technology is being developed for disaster response, logistics and education. The report adds that local schools have hosted drone-related lessons and demonstrations to introduce children to the sector and its future job possibilities.