Insights on Drone Training

Drone Day Drone Training

Hyderabad Gears Up for Drone Day Jan 16, 17

Telangana Tourism will sponsor a two-day drone event at the Gachibowli Stadium on January 16 and 17, 2025, featuring high-speed drone racing together with the traditional Makar Sankranti kite-flying festivities. TGTDC MD Kranti Valluru told Deccan Chronicle, “A virtual tourism experience centre is also being set up at the venue. The drone show will endorse Telangana’s tourist destinations. ” He added that Telangana Tourism is funding the festival, formally called the Whoopmasters Drone Day, Hyderabad Chapter Showcase Race. The stadium's outdoor field will be altered into an LED-lit racecourse. Whoop masters India, which has conducted more than 16 national races, as per MultiGP standards, said the showcase was intended as a unique spectator sport. Essential attractions include standard FPV racing, where pilots fly five-inch FPV drones at speeds over 100 km/hr; drone soccer, a team-based aerial sport in which drones are enclosed in protective spherical cages and endurance FPV racing, a relay-format event that tests pilots' stamina and strategy over extended laps. Freestyle drone stunts and a synchronized drone light show will additionally improve the spectacle of the event. Source: The Deccan Chronicle

Saheel Singh 08 Jan 2026

Defence Drones Drone Pilot

Indian Army Creates Modern Warfare Force 'Bhairav' with More than One Lakh Drone Operatives

At a time when the Centre is pushing for restructuring the defence forces, the Indian Army has undergone one of the most significant transformations to meet modern warfare challenges, creating a pool of more than one lakh drone operators across the force. Bhairav, the latest Special Force raised by the Indian Army, is formed to meet the challenges of contemporary warfare, as all operatives can handle drones and use them in real operations to target bases and formations in enemy territory. The Bhairav battalions, raised by Army Headquarters with lessons from global and individual conflicts in mind, have been formed to provide a dedicated force for high-speed, offensive operations, performing Special Forces tasking at several levels as required. The Indian Army has, by now, raised about 15 battalions, which are assigned to diverse formations along both borders and plans to raise about 25 more in the near future. The Bhairav battalions would also bridge the gap between the Para Special Forces and the regular Infantry battalions. The Bhairav would also be tasked to perform Special Operations at strategic to operational depth. “Modern warfare is altering at a rapid pace.   Today’s conflicts are hybrid and there is a need for a fully equipped force with contemporary technology to cope with the Challenges. The Bhairav battalions are also formed as part of the force restructuring, which is raised because of the needs of modern technology, new thought process and according to the latest operational requirements,” Commanding Officer of the 2 Bhairav Battalion said. “I am the CO of the Desert Bhairav Battalion of the Southern Command of the Indian Army. The desert presents its own challenges, requiring specialized skill sets, endurance and technology to be used effectively. That is why Bhairav is a technology-driven system which can work self-reliantly and perform multidomain operations in the future,” he added. Explaining about the development of the unit, the CO said, “The desert Bhairav Battalion is formed on the concept of ‘Sons of the Soil’ as most of the troops are from Rajasthan who can comprehend the terrain, language, weather and the area. The battalion has been built on the legacy of Rajanghan's valour and gallantry and that is our biggest strength. We can counter any challenge in the desert sector.” Source: Times of India

Saheel Singh 07 Jan 2026

Drone Training Drone Didi

Lakhpati Didi and Namo Drone Didi Schemes Make Women Self-Reliant in Gujarat

The government has launched several initiatives to guarantee that expansion of drones reaches even the remotest areas of Gujrat and to strengthen women's participation in India's development journey. The Lakhpati Didi Yojana was launched by the government in 2023 to empower 3 crore women by 2027 financially. In Gujarat, the scheme has been competently implemented under the leadership of CM Bhupendra Patel, resulting in 5.96 lakh women earning over Rs 1 lakh by December 2025, earning the title of Gujarat's Lakhpati Didis. The CM stated that, guided by the PM's vision, Gujarat has accepted several successful initiatives to strengthen women's empowerment. He added that with the effective implementation of the Lakhpati Didi scheme, the state is well-positioned to enable 10 lakh women to become Lakhpati Didis in the near future. Kankuben Garva from Kutch earns an annual income of over 10 lakhs The Lakhpati Didi programme, launched by the Gujarat government at the grassroots level, has had a transformative impact on women's incomes. Kankuben Garva comes from a family engaged in handicrafts. Through her contribution to the Saras Mela, she extended the platform for showcasing Kutch handicrafts, creating new market scenarios. With support from a Rs 1.5 lakh Community Investment and a Rs 4 lakh loan, she opened a shop by finding other women from her self-help group. Today, her products are promoted beyond the state, and she continues to scale up her initiative through sales on prominent online platforms, for example, Amazon. Earning more than Rs 10 lakh, Kankuben attributes her success largely to the constant support from the state government under the Livelihood Mission. Bhavanaben Gains a New Identity Through the Namo Drone Didi Yojana Bhavanaben Bharatkumar Chaudhary, of Kankrej taluka of Banaskantha district, has earned a different identity in the region as a Drone Didi. Educated up to the bachelor's level, she is engaged in animal husbandry and agriculture. Selected under the Namo Drone Didi Yojana, she received specialized training in pesticide spraying using drones and is now extensively recognized as a Drone Didi across Kankrej taluka. While continuing to live and work in her village, she is realizing her aspirations and motivating other women to become Aatmanirbhar. Under the Namo Drone Didi Yojana, women aged 18-60 years, with a Class 10 qualification, are qualified to train and work as drone pilots. Identification of over 10 lakh potential Lakhpati Didis in Gujarat At present, trained Community Resource Persons in the state have identified 10.74 lakh women with the potential to become Lakhpati Didis. To systematically capture details of their prevailing livelihood activities, accessible resources, spending and income, the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, has developed a Digital Livelihood Register. On the basis of data from the Digital Livelihood Register, the recognized Lakhpati Didis are getting need-based support, including training, assets, monetary assistance and marketing support. How does the Lakhpati Didi scheme Work? The scheme supports rural women related to self-help groups in starting income-generating activities to help them earn Rs 1 lakh or more annually. Women can start businesses in agriculture, animal husbandry, handicrafts and other nearby pertinent sectors. To enable this, several government schemes offer support through training, monetary assistance and market linkages, allowing sustained income growth. As stated by the guidelines of the Central Government, income calculation for a Lakhpati Didi comprises the following details: * Total annual income from agriculture and related activities. * Income from non-farm activities, manufacturing, trading and services. * Income of any family member, salaried/employed. * Income received from farm and non-farm labour work. * Monetary Amounts received through the assistance of government schemes. * Income earned through commissions and honorary salaries. Training of more than 10,000 Community Resource Persons by 248 Master Trainers. To guarantee the successful application of the scheme, the Gujarat government has taken more than a few steps. At the taluka level, 248 Master Trainers have been chosen, who have trained over 10,000 Community Resource Persons to date. These CRPs will support women related to self-help groups. Throughout this process, data are frequently updated in the Digital Livelihood Register, enabling effective monitoring and the provision of training, monetary support, and market linkages to women entrepreneurs.  Source: AWAZ

Saheel Singh 29 Dec 2025

Defence Drones Kamikaze Drones

Army Will Acquire 850 Indigenous Kamikaze Drones Worth Rs 2000 Crore

The Indian Army, in a move to improve its military prowess, will acquire 850 kamikaze drones worth Rs 2000 crore. Leveraging lessons from India's ‘Operation Sindoor’, the Indian Armed Forces is strengthening its defence forces. The acquisition will be cleared by the Defence Acquisition Council later this month, will be a big step in India's approach to contemporary warfare.  According to reports, indigenous drones, sourced from domestic manufacturers, will equip the Army, Navy, and Air Force with pioneering technology to tackle emerging threats. The deal is another example of India's push for self-sufficiency in defence production, aligning with the government's 'Make in India' initiative. As   India is looking to strengthen its position in the region, the kamikaze drones will provide an edge, allow precise strikes and minimizing collateral damage. The Army's experience during Operation Sindoor, where drones were key in targeting terrorist hideouts, has informed this decision. The Indian Army, with plans to invest 30,000 loitering munitions in the near future, is bringing a key change in warfare competencies. The drones will be integrated into infantry battalions, with each unit forming an Ashni platoon dedicated to working these unmanned aerial vehicles.  What Are Kamikaze Drones? The officials stated that Kamikaze drones are drones designed to hover over a target area before crashing into it with explosive payloads. They are cost-effective, high-precision tools used for surveillance and strikes, diminishing collateral damage. As officials stated, the Army plans to have each infantry battalion include an Ashni platoon accountable for operating these drones against enemy locations and in counterinsurgency roles, with the induction of about 30,000 loitering munitions in the near future. Kamikaze Drones Effectiveness During Operation Sindoor The Indian Army has formerly used drones efficiently during Operation Sindoor, targeting terror headquarters inside Pakistan and neutralizing 7-9 terrorist targets. The drones also took on the Pakistan Army, causing enormous damage and casualties. The drones will be sourced from indigenous manufacturers, aligning with India's push for self-dependence in defence technology. Companies such as InsideFPV Ventures and Maharshi Industries are leading the expansion of affordable, high-precision kamikaze drones priced at about $400 per unit. Source: Republic Bharat

Saheel Singh 29 Dec 2025

Drone Training Drone Pilot

UP Farmers Learn AI, Drone Tech Through ‘Kisan Pathshala’

For the first time, women agricultural volunteers recognized as Krishi Sakhis have been allocated key roles alongside farmers, officials from the state agriculture department said. The programme emphases on improving technical knowledge, endorsing modern farming practices and raising consciousness about government schemes amongst cultivators, officials from the state agriculture department said. Farmers in UP are being trained in AI and drone-based farming through the “Kisan Pathshala” programme, an initiative of the state government which links traditional agriculture with contemporary practices, officials said on 20 th December 2025. For the first time, women agricultural volunteers recognized as Krishi Sakhis have been allocated key roles alongside farmers, officials from the state agriculture department said. The programme emphasises improving technical knowledge, endorsing modern farming practices, and raising awareness about government schemes amongst cultivators, officials from the state agriculture department said. In Prayagraj district, Kisan Pathshalas are being organized in 575 villages, benefiting farmers and expanding access to technology-based agricultural solutions, officials said. Deputy director of agriculture in Prayagraj, Pawan Kumar Vishwakarma, said the programme began on December 14. Officials said that drones with multispectral sensors help in crop monitoring, soil assessment and recognizing water stress or nutrient deficiencies. AI-based precision spraying enables targeted use of fertilizers and pesticides, while early detection of pests allows suitable treatment. Data analysis also assists in yield prediction, irrigation planning and nutrient management. The state budget has emphasized strengthening the agricultural sector and growing farmers’ incomes. Officials said access to advanced techniques and technology is vital to attain this goal. The Department of Agriculture is conducting the sessions as part of the initiative “The Million Farmers School 8.0.” He said the initiative decodes budget provisions into on-ground training by connecting farmers with modern technology. Participants are given guidance on cutting-edge practices, including the use of drones and AI in agriculture. The sessions also include interactions with trained “Namo Drone Didis” and experts and resource persons specializing in AI-based farming applications. This year, skilled women farmers are attending the sessions as special guests, accompanied by two progressive male farmers who are sharing their experiences. Officials said farmers’ learning will also be evaluated through a competition, with top performers getting seed and pesticide packets. Source: Hindustan Times

Saheel Singh 29 Dec 2025

Drone Products Drone Production

Budget 2026 Will Give Drone Shakti a Boost through an Incentive-Based Manufacturing Scheme

The Budget 2026 will announce a manufacturing-focused incentive scheme under the Drone Shakti initiative to accelerate indigenous production of drones through a two-tier subsidy framework, government sources said. “The awareness is to give drone manufacturing the kind of lasting fiscal backing that lets companies invest with certainty, instead of relying only on output-based incentives.” The scheme will mark one of the government’s major multi-year fiscal commitments to the drone industry, emphasizing its intent to position India as a global manufacturing hub for civilian drones. The proposed scheme will run for five years and be aligned with the 16 Finance Commission period, may include a fiscal commitment of about Rs 10,000 crore. The finance ministry has cleared the proposal in principle and will approve spending for the full duration upfront, sources said. Unlike the production-linked incentive scheme for drones and drone components, which is linked to value addition and output, the new proposal combines investment-linked incentives with manufacturing support to help build scale in the industry. Two-tier subsidy structure Under the proposed agenda, the first layer of incentives will offer a 10–15 per cent subsidy on capital spending for setting up drone manufacturing units and related infrastructure, sources said. The support will be subject to conditions, including a minimum turnover threshold and time-bound completion of investments. “The idea is to support capacity creation upfront. Companies will be essential to complete capital investment within a certain period of joining the scheme, so that manufacturing capacity comes on stream quickly,” the source said. The second layer will offer a 10–15 percent subsidy linked to manufacturing output, aimed at making domestically produced drones more cost-competitive against imports. It aims to bridge the pricing gap that Indian manufacturers face, as more than a few critical components are still sourced from abroad. “The manufacturing-linked incentive is meant to help Indian firms compete on price. Without some output support, locally made drones struggle to match imported alternatives,” the source said. Graded incentives, late entry allowed The scheme will include a graded incentive structure for companies that join later. Early entrants may obtain the full benefit. “The incentive will be tapered for late entrants, but they will not be put at a disadvantage. The scheme coverage will remain for the full five-year period,” the source said. Local sourcing norms mandatory To address India’s requirement for imported drone components, the scheme will mandate domestic content requirements of about 50–60 per cent as a main eligibility criterion. Companies that depend heavily on imported components will not be able to benefit from all the benefits. “There was a detailed discussion on domestic content. Local sourcing will be obligatory to guarantee genuine manufacturing, not just assembly,” the source said. While the import of fully built drones is limited, Indian manufacturers continue to depend on imported components such as sensors, avionics and propulsion systems, limiting value addition within the nation. Separate from drone PLI Officials said the planned scheme will run distinctly from the existing drone PLI, which was launched with a smaller expenditure and a focus on value addition rather than upfront investment support. “This is not a replacement for PLI. It is a complementary scheme that identifies the requirement for capital support and scale in a sunrise sector,” the government source said. The Drone Shakti initiative was proclaimed in the Budget 2022–23, as part of the government’s broader push to advance the drone ecosystem. The initiative focused mainly on endorsing drone acceptance and services instead of direct manufacturing subsidies. Under Drone Shakti, the government will encourage the use of drones across sectors, such as agriculture, land records, infrastructure, logistics, and mapping, while supporting drone start-ups and skill development. A key thrust was the promotion of Drone-as-a-Service models, allowing farmers, small businesses and government departments to access drone services without owning the equipment. However, Drone Shakti does not offer direct fiscal incentives for setting up manufacturing facilities. Source: Money Control

Saheel Singh 24 Dec 2025

Drone Simulators Drone Training

Enord Secures Landmark Multi-Crore Indian Army Order for Indigenous VR Drone Training Simulators

Enord Pvt. Ltd., a ground-breaking AI-on-Edge drone technology startup, has secured a multi-crore contract from the School of Artillery, Deolali, Nashik, Indian Army, for the supply of Made-in-India Standalone VR Drone Training Simulators. The order has been placed under the Emergency Powers Revenue 2025 mandate, marking a significant milestone in India's drive in the direction of Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence technology. Under the contract, Enord will transport 700+ VR drone simulators to Category-A establishments of the Indian Army, spanning 19 units across the country. The disposition will be carried out in three phases, with full completion targeted for Q2 2026, enabling fast, scalable enhancement of drone training infrastructure. The simulators are intended to offer high-fidelity, immersive training for military drone operators without dependence on live drones. The system supports FPV flying, ISR mission rehearsal, emergency response drills, and intricate tactical scenarios, significantly reducing operational risk, cost, and equipment wear while quickening pilot readiness. The award follows an extensive assessment and qualification process, including field trials, thorough performance assessments and strict country-of-origin compliance checks. These audits underline the Army's emphasis on secure, indigenous supply chains. Commenting on the accomplishment, CoFounder and CEO of Enord, said, "This contract is a decisive vote of confidence in young Indian entrepreneurs and in indigenous defence technology. It validates that Indian-built systems can meet and surpass the operational expectations of our armed forces. Guided by our vision of 'Creating Ease,' we are delivering this project on schedule and building a lasting partnership with the Indian Army." Founded on January 29, 2021, Enord emerged from leading incubators across IITs, IIITs, and IIMs. The company focuses on emerging intelligent, autonomous drone and simulation systems that go beyond conventional GPS-based navigation. Its proprietary AI Pilot architecture enables instantaneous perception and decision-making at the edge, letting systems function effectively in GPS-denied and complex environments. With this order, Enord strengthens its position as a key contributor to India's indigenous defence ecosystem, advancing skill development, self-reliance and next-generation military training capabilities. Source: ANI

Saheel Singh 24 Dec 2025

Drone Surveillance Aircraft Training

Indian Navy to Boost Surveillance With MQ-9 Drones, C-295 Aircraft

Boosting Surveillance Capabilities The Indian Navy will improve its surveillance competencies with the induction of indigenous aircraft, said Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi on 18 th December 2025. Speaking to ANI, Admiral Tripathi was of the opinion that the Navy is receiving 31 MQ-9 drones, with 15 for the Navy and 8 each for the Army and Air Force. He added that the Navy is also teaming up with the Coast Guard to obtain the C-295 base aircraft. Also, Admiral Tripathi said the Navy is considering acquiring 6 additional P-8I aircraft to meet its total need of 27. "We need 31 MQ-9s, 15 for the Navy and 8 each for the Army and Air Force... We are looking forward to their induction in 3 or 4 years.   Parallelly, we are looking at one more indigenous case, in which we have teamed up with the Coast Guard for the base aircraft, the C-295. We want to induct 15 medium-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft, and the Coast Guard wants to induct 9 triple MA aircraft. Furthermore, we are considering inducting 6 more P-8Is, as the total requirement is 27. We have gaps in that sense... That case is also progressing,". MH-60R 'Osprey' Squadron Commissioned The Indian Navy commissioned its second MH-60R helicopter squadron, INAS 335, at INS Hansa, Goa, in the presence of Adm Dinesh K Tripathi. Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi said that the squadron will add great value to combat readiness and improve the Navy's anti-submarine warfare competence. "Today is a significant day for us and for the Navy that we have commissioned INAS 335 'Osprey', the first operational squadron. One squadron we commissioned in March 2024 in Cochin was the training squadron. This new squadron will add prodigious value to the combat readiness of our surface platforms at sea because it will improve anti-submarine warfare capability, anti-surface warfare capability, maritime domain awareness capability and will also be a deterrent to any platforms, particularly the surface and subsurface platforms of our adversary," the Navy Chief told ANI. Details on the MH-60R Platform He also praised the MH-60R helicopters and expressed enthusiasm about the new deal with the US to procure 24 extra helicopters. "MH-60R is a very potent platform. We are very content that we signed the contract for the induction of 24 MH-60R," he said. The MH-60R is an all-weather, day-and-night-capable helicopter designed for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), Anti-Surface Warfare, Search and Rescue, Medical Evacuation, and Vertical Replenishment. These helicopters will augment the Indian Navy's integral aviation competencies on the Western Seaboard. Source: MSN

Saheel Singh 22 Dec 2025

Drone Jobs Drone Photography

India's Drone, Space-Tech Boom to Add over 200,000 jobs by 2033: Report

India's aerospace, drones, and space tech industry will expand over five-fold to USD 44 billion by 2033 and create more than 2 lakh new jobs for engineers, researchers, and data scientists, a report said on Friday. As reported by workforce solutions provider Adecco India, the aerospace, drones, and space tech industry is quickly evolving from a research-driven domain into a developed industry, driven by government reforms, private-sector participation and international collaborations. The nation's drone and space-tech industry will create over 2 lakh new jobs for engineers, researchers, data scientists and business professionals, amongst others, the report added.  Moreover, new-age roles such as Space Policy Analysts, Robotics Engineers, Avionics Specialists, and GNC experts are emerging as important to India's space ambitions, it stated. The insights and numbers presented are derived from data collected across over 100 Adecco clients, supplemented with market research sources. "With robust government vision and a vibrant startup ecosystem, India will become a global space hub, and this will create a wave of prospects for talent across engineering, research, data and business domains," Adecco India Director and Head of General Staffing Deepesh Gupta said. Regions, for example, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Pune, will drive maximum prospects, with wages for niche roles in avionics, cryogenics, Attitude Determination and Control Systems, Remote Sensing Specialists, Space Habitat Engineer commanding a 20-30 per cent premium compared to technical fields, Gupta added. Central to this growth are reforms, for example, the Indian Space Policy 2023, a thriving base of 250+ space startups, and a breakthrough of Rs 1,000 crore VC fund under IN-SPACe to fuel innovation and private-sector participation. "Diversity will be a cornerstone of India's space workforce. Initiatives, for example, the WISE Fellowship, Vigyan Jyoti Programme, ISRO Young Scientist Programme (YUVIKA), and the SAMRIDH Scheme, are already allowing more women to enter technical fields, research, and entrepreneurship. Upcoming milestones that will accelerate talent demand across the ecosystem comprise the Gaganyaan mission, India's contribution in the Axiom-4 ISS program, and the expansion of the nation's own space station. At present, the Indian space economy is contributing around 2 per cent to the global market. The government has set a target of scaling this to USD 44 billion by 2033, including USD 11 billion in exports, positioning India to command 7-8 per cent of the global space economy, according to the report. Source: Business Standard

Saheel Singh 15 Dec 2025

Drone Training Drone Defence

From Drones to Missiles, An Indigenous Air Defence System will be Deployed in the Capital to Monitor Every Threat

Given the recent escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan, the need to further strengthen the capital's strategic security was felt. In response, a decision has been made to deploy a new indigenously developed air defence system to protect Delhi-NCR from potential aerial threats, including drones, fighter aircraft, and missiles. This system will be based entirely on indigenous technology. DRDO and IAF to Jointly Develop IADWS India is developing the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organization. The Indian Air Force will command and operate this system. It will utilize two major indigenous weapon systems: the Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile and the Very Short-Range Air Defense System. Together, the system will be able to target and destroy any high-speed aircraft, enemy missiles, or advanced drones approaching the capital.   Source: Zee News

Saheel Singh 10 Dec 2025

Drone Products Drone Training

JSW Setting up USD 90 Million Military Drone Plant in Hyderabad

The USD 23 billion JSW Group is setting up an unmanned aerial systems manufacturing facility with an investment of about Rs. 850 crores at the Maheshwaram electronics manufacturing cluster, on the outskirts of Hyderabad. The USD 23 billion JSW Group is setting up an unmanned aerial systems manufacturing facility with $90 million investment at the Maheshwaram electronics manufacturing cluster, on the outskirts of Hyderabad. It has entered into a strategic partnership with the US-based defence technology firm Shield AI to manufacture Shield AI’s Group 3 unmanned aerial system under a long-term licensing arrangement for technology transfer. A fixed-wing, vertical take-off and landing long-endurance intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance platform, V-BAT, is currently deployed by multiple armed forces globally, including the U.S. Marine Expeditionary Units. The manufacturing, at the facility of JSW Defence, is expected to commence by the last quarter of 2026, JSW Group said after the foundation stone laying ceremony in which IT and Industries Minister D. Sridhar Babu, JSW Group’s Parth Jindal and others participated. The USD 23 billion JSW Group is setting up an unmanned aerial systems manufacturing facility with an investment of about Rs. 850 crores at the Maheshwaram electronics manufacturing cluster on the outskirts of Hyderabad. It has entered into a strategic partnership with US-based defence technology firm Shield AI to manufacture the latter’s Group 3 unmanned aerial system under a long-term licensing arrangement for technology transfer. A fixed-wing, vertical take-off and landing long-endurance intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) platform, V-BAT, is currently deployed by multiple armed forces globally, including the U.S. Marine Expeditionary Units. The manufacturing, at the facility of JSW Defence, is expected to commence by the last quarter of 2026, JSW Group said after the foundation stone laying ceremony in which IT and Industries Minister D. Sridhar Babu, JSW Group’s Parth Jindal and others participated. The investment will enable JSW to establish a local supply chain and create an advanced facility in India for manufacturing, assembling and testing V-BAT. The effort will enable large-scale production of V-BATs in India to serve the needs of the Indian Armed Forces and also function as a global production hub, the Group said. Project Will Create over 300 High-Value jobs. The facility is spread over 16 acres and will have a capacity to manufacture 300 V-BAT drones annually. It will house production, repair, testing, administrative, and support infrastructure. This project will create over 300 high-value jobs, the Minister’s office said. “From manufacturing the globally renowned V-BAT at scale, the facility will lay the foundation for an integrated, end-to-end UAS ecosystem, from advanced manufacturing to operator training, manufacturing repair and operations (MRO) and sustained innovation. This project stands among the most significant defence technology transfers to India,” Mr Jindal said. On the Group’s defence ventures, he said the drone manufacturing project follows the JSW Gecko Motors joint venture, with a Ukrainian company, to make special mobility vehicles in Chandigarh. The facility was commissioned about 18 months ago and supplied nearly 200 vehicles to the Indian Army and the United Nations. In the same facility, JSW has another JV with an American firm to manufacture off-road vehicles. Total Rs 1,200 Crore investment The Group will invest a total of Rs. 1,200 crores in defence ventures, including Rs. 320 crores for technology transfer from Shield. He said India Armed Forces were evaluating the UAS from a localization perspective. The initial order is for importing eight UAS through the emergency procurement route, which is directly catered for by Shield AI. The larger orders will be placed once the facility is up, he said. Telangana Aims to be a Defence Hub The IT and Industries Minister said Telangana is working towards positioning itself as a strategic defence hub of India by developing a strong ecosystem for unmanned systems and advanced defence manufacturing. The State government is preparing a comprehensive roadmap to transform Telangana into a global leader in defence innovation, with a special focus on unmanned aerial systems, drone technologies and aerospace manufacturing. There are plans to establish a drone manufacturing and testing corridor to boost indigenous defence capabilities, Mr Sridhar Babu said. Source: The Hindu

Saheel Singh 08 Dec 2025

Drone Training Drone Pilot

Russia Deepens Ties with India, Seeks Joint Drone Production – ISW

The Kremlin is increasingly relying on India to compensate for its labour shortage and also wants New Delhi to support the production of drones that Russia seeks to use in the war, according to a report by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW). The head of the Russian state defence conglomerate Rostec, Sergey Chemezov, said on December 5 that Russia is in talks with India to localize the production of Russian drones, including the Lancet, in India. The day before, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin said in an interview with India Today that Russia not only sells weapons to India but also transfers technologies for shipbuilding, rocket production, and the aviation sector. The dictator claims that India is using Russian Su-57 fighter jets and is producing T-90 tanks and jointly developed BrahMos missiles on its territory. Analysts note that such statements by Putin and the head of Rostec indicate that Moscow may be considering expanding cooperation with India to include joint drone production. Russia is likely planning to use these drones in its war against Ukraine, possibly in exchange for transferring new Russian technologies and combat experience to India. It is also known that a delegation from the Smolensk FPV Drone Piloting Centre has arrived in India to carry out tasks within the framework of the Russian-Indian strategic partnership. On December 5, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov said that Russia can accept an "unlimited number" of labour migrants from India under a new bilateral labour mobility agreement signed that day in New Delhi. According to Manturov, the Russian industrial sector is short 800,000 workers, and the trade, construction, and services sectors are short 1.5 million workers. The deputy prime minister said it will take Russia more than a year to create the conditions needed to receive, employ, and process the documents of Indian migrants. At the same time, the head of the occupation authorities in the Kherson region, Volodymyr Saldo, said on December 6 that possible cooperation with Indian partners was discussed at a recent international investment forum in Moscow. Saldo claims that the occupation authorities are ready to attract Indian labour migrants to “strengthen the region’s agricultural industry” and are prepared to cooperate with Indian partners to integrate the occupied Kherson region into “international trade corridors.” Russia–India cooperation As a reminder, India has faced economic and trade losses due to its cooperation with Russia, predominantly in the milieu of Russia’s war against Ukraine and sanctions pressure from the US and the EU. Because of its close ties with Russia, the US in 2025 raised tariffs on most Indian goods to 50 per cent, including “additional” tariffs linked to purchases of Russian energy resources and weapons. This has negatively affected Indian manufacturers who target the American market. For this reason, in December 2025, India plans to reduce exports of Russian oil to the lowest level in the past three years. Earlier, RBC-Ukraine stated that Indian energy giant Reliance Industries totally stopped imports of Russian oil on November 20. As an alternative, the Indian conglomerate Reliance Industries acquired millions of barrels of oil from Middle Eastern nations and the US after American sanctions were imposed on two Russian producers. In addition, the media reported that India plans to discuss purchasing Russian fighter jets and missile defence systems during a visit by Russian dictator Vladimir Putin. It is also known that India will lease a nuclear attack submarine from Russia for 10 years. The deal is worth 2 billion dollars. Source: RBC Ukraine

Saheel Singh 08 Dec 2025

Drone Products Drone Training

India to Install Anti-Drone Systems at All Airports Due to Rising Security Concerns

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs and the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security have decided to install anti-drone systems at all major and minor civil airports across India. The decision was taken in a high-level joint meeting and comes in the wake of increasing security risks and the likelihood of future war-like situations, senior officials said on Sunday. The government’s decision has been influenced by the experience gained during Operation Sindoor, following the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, where 26 civilians were killed. After the attack, India and Pakistan were involved in a tense military exchange. Indian forces carried out strikes on terrorist bases inside Pakistan and Pakistani drones were flying over Indian territory, several of which were shot down by India’s defence systems. These events highlighted how drones are being used as tools in contemporary warfare and how they pose risks to civilian areas, including airports. While the lasting plan is to cover all airports, officials said the project will be implemented in phases. In the first phase, anti-drone systems will be installed at Delhi, Mumbai, Amritsar, Jammu and Srinagar airports. These sites were chosen because they have faced higher security threats and were directly involved in the military escalation. First time anti-drone tech will be used at purely civilian airports This is the first time India will position anti-drone systems at airports handling only civilian passenger traffic. Until now, such systems were primarily used by defence and border security agencies. The systems will help detect, track and neutralize any rogue drone entering airport airspace, a significant step as drones have become effective tools in new-age conflict. The MHA is leading the project, while BCAS has formed a committee to handle planning and execution. This committee includes representatives from: • Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) • Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) • Airport security and technical experts • Other relevant stakeholders The government is at present reviewing the technical specifications of the anti-drone equipment. Once confirmed, the MHA will coordinate with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and direct airport operators to connect systems that meet national security requirements. The government is also studying anti-drone models already in use at key airports abroad to accept the most effective technology. Deadlines for installations at various airports will be set after the specifications are approved. Source: mathrubhumi.com

Saheel Singh 27 Nov 2025

Drone Products Drone Training

NIT-C Students Develop Autonomous Drone for Disaster-Relief Operations

Formed in August, the 15-member team will design a compact aerial system capable of assisting rescue agencies during floods, landslides and other climate-induced emergencies, said a release. The project received vital technical and financial backing from Kokos.AI, whose R&D team worked closely with the students to ensure technological precision and a unified implementation. The group, known as Team Paravai, presented the drone at the SAE Aerothon 2025 in Chennai. Weighing 2 kg, the drone has a frame constructed from 3D-printed PA12 and a carbon fiber composite, providing durability and reduced weight. The quadcopter features several features tailored for practical rescue scenarios. The aircraft supports communication over a 1-km range and can stream live video. A LIDAR-based collision-avoidance system helps navigation in complex terrain, while sensors detect human presence up to 15 metres away. The drone can also transport aid packages of up to 200 grams with high drop precision. Its fully autonomous control system decreases the requirement for continuous operator involvement during hazardous operations, the release said. NIT Calicut officials defined the project as a substantial step towards enhancing technology-driven disaster management. Team Paravai will expand the drone’s endurance and incorporate cutting-edge payload capabilities. Source: The Hindu

Saheel Singh 26 Nov 2025

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ideaForge Wins USD11M Indian Military Drone Deal

India’s military has placed a key new order for IdeaForge’s latest unmanned systems after putting them through demanding trials in electronic-warfare conditions. IdeaForge confirmed that it will supply its next-generation Zolt tactical drone and the SWITCH 2 vertical-takeoff UAV under a capital emergency procurement worth roughly 1 billion rupees, according to a report by the Economic Times. Zolt accounted for about 750 million rupees of the order, following field assessments that tested its performance in high-altitude and heavily jammed environments. SWITCH 2, already in service with the army, received a follow-on order valued at 300 million rupees. Rather than being a routine replenishment, the deal seems tied to India’s broader effort to harden its ISR and precision-delivery capabilities along contested borders. Zolt’s design reflects that shift as the platform is built for long-range intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions and can carry precision payloads. IndiaForge’s Other Deals with India IdeaForge has progressively expanded its footprint across India’s defence and security ecosystem over the past several years. In June 2025, the company secured an emergency order from the government worth 1.37 billion rupees for mini unmanned aerial vehicles. The deal will see ideaForge deliver fixed-wing vertical take-off and landing drones within 12 months. Apart from the military, government agencies, such as the National Disaster Response Force, state police units and infrastructure authorities, have adopted ideaForge drones for tasks ranging from mapping and search-and-rescue to monitoring critical assets.   Source: The Defense Post

Saheel Singh 24 Nov 2025

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NIT Rourkela Develops Autonomous AI-powered Land Mapping Drone System

NIT Rourkela has developed Bhu Manachitra, an autonomous instantaneous land-mapping drone system. The innovation integrates AI and UAV technology to produce land maps without requiring internet connectivity, external computers or manual intervention. The research team has advanced a deep learning model allowing the drone to recognize land features in real time. Different from conventional drones that take images for later processing, BHU-Manachitra completes all analysis on board, making it autonomous and appropriate for remote, disaster-hit regions and areas lacking communication networks. Speaking about the development, Sambit Bakshi, Associate Professor, Computer Science & Engineering, said, “The invented methodology makes use of a lightweight AI model with 2.48 million parameters, which makes Bhu Manachitra suitable for on-board processing in drones. Drones, being intended lightweight for long flight time, cannot carry heavy dedicated hardware for instantaneous image processing, but can carry a tiny processor for executing this lightweight AI model that performs land mapping.” The technology will support multiple sectors. Government agencies can deploy it for land record modernization, urban planning and smart-city development. Agriculture departments can use it to evaluate crop conditions, soil health and irrigation needs, aiding productivity and sustainability. Throughout natural disasters, the system can offer instant terrain intelligence, enabling faster and more effective response planning. Environmental and forest departments can also use it to track deforestation, encroachments and changes in biodiversity. NIT Rourkela and IIT Patna Vishlesan I-Hub Foundation have jointly secured an Indian patent for the technology. TIH IIT Patna sponsored the research under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber Physical Systems of the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India.   Source : Economic Times

Saheel Singh 24 Nov 2025

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India’s First ‘Sky Factory’ Will Build 1,000 Electric Air Taxis a year in Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh will build India’s first “giga-scale” electric air taxi manufacturing cluster in Anantapur, with Karnataka-based Sarla Aviation committing an investment of INR 1,300 crore. The partnership was announced on 18 th November 2025, following the signing of an MoU by Sarla Aviation and the Andhra Pradesh Airport Development Corporation Ltd at the CII Partnership Summit 2025 in Visakhapatnam. The development follows Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s new announcement that the state will begin producing drone taxis in two years. At the centre of the plan is the upcoming “Sky Factory”, which Sarla says will rank amongst the world’s largest facilities for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. In the first phase, the company will invest 330 crores to set up a 150-acre manufacturing and testing campus at Thimmasamduram village in Kalyanadurg mandal. The site will have production lines, R&D labs, composite units and a dedicated 2-km runway for testing and certification. A second phase will increase the facility by another 350 acres. Once fully operational, the Sky Factory will produce up to 1,000 aircraft a year, including Sarla’s Shunya hybrid VTOL and a range of indigenously built electrical harnesses, landing gear systems and composite structures. The project will generate high-value employment by 2027, starting with 40 specialized positions and 140 indirect jobs. Rakesh Gaonkar, cofounder and CTO at Sarla Aviation, said the project is designed to place India at the centre of next-gen aviation. “With the world’s biggest Sky Factory, we want to make India the nerve centre for the next era of flight. This giga facility will shape the aircraft of the future and establish India as a force in sustainable aerial mobility,” he said. APADCL will act as a tactical facilitator to fast-track the project and build the surrounding ecosystem. The state government said the association marks a major step in its push to establish Andhra Pradesh as a hub for cutting-edge manufacturing, aerospace innovation and green mobility.   Source: Business Today

Saheel Singh 21 Nov 2025

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DroneNova India to Launch Nation's First Drone Soccer League at ESFE 2025

DroneNova India Pvt. Ltd. has announced the launch of India's first-ever Drone Soccer League (DSL) and opened enrolments for its on-campus Drone STEM Workshops. The initiatives will be unveiled at the upcoming Education Supply & Franchise 2025, where DroneNova is the official sponsor. The ESFE 2025, scheduled from December 11 to 13, 2025, at the Bombay Exhibition Centre, Mumbai, will bring together the most influential leaders, educators and policy influencers shaping the future of Indian education. The event will have the likes of Dr Niranjan Hiranandani as Guest of Honour, alongside distinguished speakers Sonal Pinto, Director, Ryan Group of Schools; Lina Ashar, Founder, Dreamtime Learning and Syed Sultan Ahmed, Chairperson, TAISI. The three-day expo will provide transformative solutions for India's quickly evolving education ecosystem. DroneNova's revolutionary Drone Soccer League, a first-of-its-kind initiative, transforms classrooms into live arenas of innovation. With the help of this program, students will pilot safe, sub-250g drones in a net-caged field, learning physics, coding, teamwork and strategy in an appealing, competitive environment. We want to make India a global hub for drone-based experiential education that inspires curiosity, collaboration and creativity in every learner," said Himansshu Jainn, Founder, DroneNova India. "Every flight is a science lesson; every goal is a leadership moment. With Drone Soccer, students don't just learn concepts, they live them." The program aligns with the priorities of NEP 2020 on experiential learning and 21st-century skill-building, complements Skill India pathways and adheres to India's evolving Drone Policy framework. Intended as a turnkey offering, it offers schools with equipment, safety infrastructure, certified trainers and curriculum-linked modules aligned with NEP, IB MYP, and IGCSE standards, ensuring both academic depth and operational ease. To catalyze a national movement, DroneNova is inviting 10 visionary institutions to join as "Founding Partner Schools" DroneNova India to Launch Nation's First Drone Soccer League at ESFE 2025. Advertorial Disclaimer: visionary institutions to join as Founding Partner Schools, who will obtain exclusive benefits as well as priority workshop scheduling, lifetime partnership privileges and guaranteed regional qualifier slots for the Drone Soccer League. By sponsoring ESFE 2025, DroneNova India will showcase how drones, STEM and sport can converge to redefine classroom learning and inspire a new generation of innovators. Source: ANI

Saheel Singh 19 Nov 2025

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Indigenous Kaal Bhairav Drone Wins Silver in Croatia

India’s indigenous Kaal Bhairav drone won a silver medal at the 23rd International Exhibition of Innovations 2025 in Zagreb, Croatia. The shows that Made-in-India defence technology is now competing with some of the world’s best. India is announcing itself as a strong player in cutting-edge defence technology, armed with a fully indigenous AI-powered combat drone that can go toe-to-toe with anything Western nations produce. The Kaal Bhairav E2A2 is India's first AI-driven Medium Altitude Long Endurance autonomous combat aircraft. Built completely by the Indian defence company Flying Wedge Defence and Aerospace, this drone represents a massive breakthrough in India's military technology capabilities. This drone can fly for 30 hours straight and cover a distance of 3,000 km. Its onboard systems manage mission planning, targeting and coordinated swarm actions independently. Built For Future Warfare This drone is good because it’s extremely adaptable. Its smart onboard systems and multi-sensor setup allow it to strike from more than one direction with precision. Even if foes try to jam its signals, a common tactic that forces drones to land, it can fly and complete its mission. Its modular design makes it worthwhile in various roles, including precise attacks, electronic warfare, wide-area maritime surveillance and real-time information sharing on the battlefield. Most prominently, it provides India with a fully homegrown, affordable option compared to the costly foreign drones. India has clearly entered the global drone race with confidence. 'Made In India, For the World' After winning silver, Flying Wedge CEO Suhas Tejaskanda said, "This victory proves India's technological strength. Our goal is clear: Made in India, for the world." He stressed why this matters strategically: "India must build its own weapons and technology to end foreign dependency. Kaal Bhairav represents completely Indian design, manufacturing, and AI innovation. This strengthens Atmanirbhar Bharat." A New Defence Powerhouse Emerges The Croatia silver medal isn't just an acknowledgement; it's an authentication from the international community. Countries worldwide are reassessing India's tech capabilities. The defence export market, long controlled by the US, Russia and China, now has a formidable new competitor. India has entered the global drone market. Source: Zee News

Admin 17 Nov 2025

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Indian Army, IAF To Induct 16 Laser-Based Anti-Drone Systems With 2 Km Range

At a time when the Indian armed forces are looking to strengthen their capabilities against enemy drones, the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army are set to place orders for 16 indigenous drone detection and interdiction systems, which will be capable of targeting unmanned aerial systems at a range of 2 km with a laser and disabling them. The Defence Ministry will clear the DRDO’s Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System, which can hit enemy drones with laser beams at a range of 2 km. The 10-kilowatt laser beam would double the distance at which they can engage drones with a laser, as the first system was capable of targeting at around 1 km only. The DRDO is developing long-range laser-based drone detection and interception systems, as the Pakistanis used a large number of drones in the Operation Sindoor against Indian targets, which were foiled in a big way. The DRDO has also successfully test-fired the direct energy weapon system, which can target systems at a range of 5 km, and is carrying out its trials with the involvement of the Indian defence forces. A 30-kilowatt laser-based direct energy weapon will achieve the 5 km strike capability. India, for the first time this April, showcased its capability to shoot down fixed-wing aircraft, missiles, and swarm drones using a 30-kilowatt laser-based weapon system. By doing so, India joined the list of selected countries, including the US, China, and Russia, that have shown such a capability. The Centre for High Energy Systems & Sciences CHESS, a lab of DRDO, had conducted a successful field demonstration of the Land version of Vehicle-mounted Laser-directed weapon DEW MK-II(A) at Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh. It successfully defeated the fixed-wing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle and swarm drones, causing structural damage and disabling the surveillance sensors. India needs the IDDS in large numbers, as the role of drones in the recent wars, both within and outside the country, has shown a significant use of drones by enemy forces. DRDO chief Dr Samir V. Kamat had said that the DRDO is also working on other high-energy systems, including high-energy microwaves, electromagnetic pulses, and various technologies that will provide the Star Wars capability. Source: ANI

Admin 17 Nov 2025