IG Drones: Taking Innovation to New Heights

IG Drones is a leading drone technology company in India, specializing in manufacturing and research and development of drones for defense and various industrial applications. Founded in 2018 by Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya and Om Prakash, the company aims to revolutionize traditional industrial methods by providing efficient drone solutions. (IG Drones)

The company offers a range of services, including drone surveying, mapping, and inspection, catering to sectors such as power line monitoring, road inspection, smart city planning, mine surveys, industrial surveys, pipeline surveys, agricultural surveys, railway surveys, river mapping, and disaster management. These services enable government organizations and other institutions across India to access difficult-to-reach areas, capturing detailed data for informed decision-making.

IG Drones is headquartered in Gurugram, India, with branch offices in Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Guwahati, Bangalore, and Bhubaneswar. Since its inception, IG Drones has executed over 500 projects, completed more than 10,000 drone flights, and processed over 5,550 surveys.

Rocket Dreams: The Origin Story of IG Drones

IG Drones was founded in 2018 by two visionary engineers, Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya and Om Prakash, both alumni of Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology (VSSUT), Odisha’s oldest technical university. During their time at VSSUT, Sanghapriya and Prakash led Asia’s first student rocketry mission, an initiative that garnered recognition from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and was eventually adopted by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). (YourStory)

Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya 

Bodhisattwa, a visionary with a Master’s degree in Business Administration from IIM Sambalpur, also holds an engineering degree from Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology (VSSUT), Burla. Known as a serial innovator and a TEDx speaker, he has worked across rural technology and rocket science domains, founding initiatives like the ISRO-VSLV Rocket Program. This student-led program marked India’s first multipurpose rocketry team, showcasing his drive for technological advancement. Bodhisattwa’s achievements include accolades such as the National Innovation Challenge Grand Winner and leadership roles in global alumni associations​. (Bodhisattwa)

Om Prakash

With an MBA from IIM Sambalpur and a B.Tech in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from VSSUT, he has made strides in fields like AI, machine learning, and data analytics. Before co-founding IG Drones, Om Prakash co-launched Ready2Help, a hyper-local professional services platform, and played key roles in entrepreneurial initiatives such as the Headstart Network Foundation and Startup Weekend​. (Om Prakash)

Sky’s the Limit: The Booming Drone Industry

The global drone market has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by technological advancements and expanding applications across various industries. In 2023, the market was valued at approximately USD 64.32 billion and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.5% from 2024 to 2030, reaching an estimated USD 164.58 billion by the end of the forecast period. (Grand View Research)

This growth is largely attributed to the increasing adoption of drones in sectors such as agriculture, construction, logistics, and defense. In agriculture, drones are utilized for precision farming, crop monitoring, and pesticide application, enhancing productivity and resource management. The construction industry employs drones for surveying, mapping, and monitoring project progress, improving efficiency and safety. In logistics, companies are exploring drone technology for last-mile deliveries, aiming to reduce delivery times and operational costs. The defense sector continues to invest in drones for surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat operations, underscoring their strategic importance.

Focusing on the Indian market, the drone industry is poised for substantial expansion. In 2024, the market is projected to be valued at USD 654 million and is expected to reach USD 1,437 million by 2029, exhibiting a CAGR of 17.0% during this period. (MarketsandMarkets)

Several factors contribute to this rapid growth in India. Government initiatives, such as the liberalization of drone policies and the introduction of the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, aim to make India a global hub for drone manufacturing by 2030. These policies encourage domestic production and innovation, attracting investments and fostering a conducive environment for startups and established companies alike.

The increasing application of drones in non-commercial sectors further propels market growth. Drones are being deployed for aerial cinematography, land surveys, disaster management, and infrastructure mapping, among other uses. In agriculture, drones assist in crop health monitoring and yield estimation, supporting farmers in making informed decisions. In disaster management, drones provide real-time data and imagery, aiding in efficient response and relief operations.

Mission in the Air: IG Drones’ Vision for Change

Mission and Vision

The company’s mission is to revolutionize traditional industrial methods by providing efficient, indigenous drone solutions that address critical industry challenges. Their vision is to position India as a global hub for drone technology by 2030, fostering local talent and innovation in the sector. 

Problems They Solve

The company addresses several industry challenges, including the reliance on foreign technology, inefficiencies in traditional industrial methods, and the shortage of skilled professionals in the drone technology space. By offering advanced, AI-powered drone solutions, IG Drones enhances operational efficiency, safety, and scalability across various sectors, including defense, agriculture, and infrastructure.

Business Model

IG Drones operates on a business-to-business (B2B) model, providing end-to-end drone solutions tailored to the specific needs of their clients. Their services encompass drone surveying, mapping, and inspection, enabling government organizations and other institutions to access difficult-to-reach areas and capture detailed data for informed decision-making.

In addition to their service offerings, IG Drones has developed innovative products, including India’s first 5G-enabled drone and the country’s first drone simulator. These advancements underscore the company’s commitment to driving innovation in the drone technology sector.

Through strategic partnerships with state governments, public sector undertakings (PSUs), and multinational corporations (MNCs), IG Drones has executed over 500 projects, serving more than 500 organizations, including the Indian Army. Their extensive presence across India, with branch offices in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Guwahati, Bangalore, and Bhubaneswar, allows them to deliver cutting-edge technology solutions tailored to localized needs. 

Gadgetry in the Sky: The Tools That Rule the Air

IG Drones has revolutionized the drone technology industry with state-of-the-art products and comprehensive solutions. Their offerings incorporate advanced technologies to meet the demands of sectors such as defense, agriculture, and infrastructure, ensuring high precision, efficiency, and safety.

IG Drones JAGA

IG Drones JAGA is India’s first 5G-enabled drone, tailored for accurate mapping and surveillance operations. This drone is optimized for applications like security surveillance, search and rescue missions, environmental monitoring, and infrastructure inspection. (Jaga)

  • Weight and Range: Lightweight with an all-up weight of less than 5 kg, it operates in Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) mode with a maximum range of 15 km.
  • Speed and Endurance: Capable of achieving a maximum speed of 15 m/s, it ensures rapid deployment in critical scenarios.
  • Technology: Features include high-resolution multispectral cameras, LiDAR systems, and precise RTK-GNSS integration for centimeter-level accuracy in data collection.
  • Applications: It is extensively used in disaster response scenarios, enabling real-time situational awareness for decision-makers​.

IG Drones SKYHAWK

SKYHAWK is a high-performance drone built for versatile operations, including mapping, delivery, and surveillance. It is also 5G-enabled, providing seamless data transmission over long distances. (Skyhawk)

  • Features: Equipped with redundant GPS, barometers, inertial measurement units (IMUs), and a fail-safe return-to-home (RTH) feature triggered by low battery or signal loss.
  • Endurance: Designed for extended operations, it boasts up to 3 hours of flight time, making it ideal for large-scale surveys and monitoring tasks.
  • Payload Capacity: Capable of carrying custom payloads like hyperspectral cameras and thermal sensors, it offers adaptability for specialized missions like thermal imaging and volumetric analysis​.

IG Drones DELTA 400

Delta 400 is engineered for enhanced aerial data collection, mapping, and surveillance. (Delta 400)

  • Technical Specifications:
    • Range: Operates BVLOS with a maximum range of 15 km.
    • Endurance: Features a robust design with up to 3 hours of flight time.
    • Integrated Sensors: Includes advanced sensors like LiDAR, thermal, and multispectral cameras for detailed terrain and object analysis.
  • Reliability: Its redundant GPS, barometer, and IMU systems ensure operational safety and reliability, even in challenging environments​.

IG Drones KISAAN

IG Drones KISAAN is a breakthrough in agricultural drone technology, designed for precision spraying and monitoring. (Kissan)

  • Weight and Operation: With an all-up weight of 28 kg, it operates in Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) mode, covering a 2 km radius per flight.
  • Spray Technology: Features an advanced nozzle system for even distribution of fertilizers, pesticides, and nutrients. It minimizes wastage and improves crop health.
  • Endurance: Offers 20 minutes of flight time per charge, allowing for efficient coverage of large agricultural fields.
  • Real-time Monitoring: Uses multispectral imaging to assess crop health, detect diseases, and optimize yield predictions​.

Military Drone Simulator

IG Drones’ military simulator is designed to train personnel in the effective use of drones for defense and industrial applications. (Simulator)

  • Training Modes: Provides adaptive training with realistic, interactive scenarios to simulate real-world challenges.
  • Technological Framework: Incorporates a comprehensive physics engine to replicate flight dynamics, multiple POVs (first-person, top-down, etc.), and strategic decision-making modules.
  • Applications: Ideal for defense forces, enabling them to train for reconnaissance, target tracking, and tactical operations without risking equipment or personnel​.

Drone Inspection and Mapping Services

IG Drones offers specialized drone services for inspection and mapping across sectors like infrastructure, agriculture, and disaster management.

  • Data Collection: Drones are equipped with high-resolution cameras, LiDAR, and multispectral sensors to gather detailed, actionable insights.
  • Applications: Services include:
    • Infrastructure: Powerline and pipeline inspections, bridge analysis, and smart city surveys.
    • Agriculture: Precision crop analysis, irrigation planning, and pest control.
    • Disaster Management: Real-time mapping of affected areas, search and rescue planning, and damage assessments.
  • Efficiency: These services reduce manual labor, increase accuracy, and enhance safety in difficult-to-access locations​

Code, Clouds, and Circuit Boards: The Tech Behind the Takeoff

IG Drones leverages cutting-edge technologies to power their drone operations, offering innovative solutions for a variety of sectors. The backbone of their approach lies in integrating advanced hardware, artificial intelligence, and sophisticated software systems to optimize performance and data processing.

These technologies enable real-time data analysis, allowing drones to process vast amounts of information during flights. AI facilitates autonomous decision-making, such as route optimization, obstacle avoidance, and object detection. Machine learning improves drone performance over time by learning from operational data and adapting to new scenarios.

Their drones are equipped with advanced sensors, including LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), multispectral, and thermal imaging sensors. These sensors collect high-resolution spatial and environmental data, essential for applications such as infrastructure inspection, precision agriculture, and disaster management. LiDAR technology provides centimeter-level accuracy, making it invaluable for creating detailed 3D maps and terrain models.

Navigation is another critical aspect of IG Drones’ technology. Their systems utilize RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) and PPK (Post-Processed Kinematic) GPS modules to achieve precise positioning. These systems enhance geospatial accuracy, crucial for tasks like mapping and surveying in complex terrains. Additionally, IMUs (Inertial Measurement Units) and redundant GPS modules ensure reliable navigation, even in areas with weak satellite signals.

For data management and analysis, IG Drones employs cloud computing and big data analytics. The data captured by drones is uploaded to secure cloud platforms, where it is processed and analyzed using advanced algorithms. These insights are then delivered to clients through user-friendly dashboards, enabling data-driven decision-making.

IG Drones also emphasizes safety and efficiency in their operations. Features like return-to-home (RTH) functionality, automated flight planning, and fail-safe mechanisms ensure reliable performance. Their drones are programmed to return safely to their base in case of low battery or signal loss, reducing operational risks.

Another innovation is the use of 5G connectivity, which enables real-time communication between drones and ground control systems. This technology ensures seamless data transfer and enhanced control over long distances, making operations faster and more responsive.

Flying High: Accolades and Impact That Speak Volumes

 Founded in 2018, the company has rapidly expanded its operations, aiming to capture 5% of the drone market share by 2025. Their focus on developing indigenous, AI-powered drones has streamlined operations across sectors such as defense, agriculture, and infrastructure. This approach has reduced reliance on foreign technology and positioned IG Drones as a key player in India’s technological landscape. (SSB Crack)

Through its Drone Centre of Excellence (CoE), the company has trained over 4,000 individuals, equipping them with the necessary skills to operate and manage drone technology. This initiative addresses the industry’s skill gap and fosters a workforce capable of driving the sector’s growth.

Notably, they were honored with the Global Airwards Best Drone Organization Award in the start-up category, acknowledging their efforts in assisting local communities during natural disasters. Additionally, the company secured the UAV Tech Excellence Award for developing India’s first 5G-enabled drone, Skyhawk, highlighting their commitment to technological advancement.

Their excellence in disaster response was further recognized when they received the IISSM Annual Excellence Award for Best Disaster Response/Search and Rescue Company for their effective response during the Sikkim flood. (Business Standard)

With a presence in multiple countries and plans for further expansion, IG Drones is well-positioned to capitalize on the projected growth of the global drone market, which is expected to reach $51.4 billion by 2027. (Ciol)

Better Together: Partnerships That Keep IG Drones Soaring

 In September 2024, they signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar to establish an Advanced Drone Excellence Centre focused on disaster management research and development. This collaboration aims to leverage IIT Bhubaneswar’s engineering expertise and IG Drones’ specialization in drone technology and AI to develop innovative solutions for disaster scenarios, including search and rescue operations and real-time data collection. (CIO and Leader)

Earlier, in March 2024, IG Drones partnered with the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sambalpur to inaugurate India’s first Drone Centre of Excellence at IIM Sambalpur’s Delhi Campus. This initiative focuses on fostering research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in drone technology, aiming to propel India to the forefront of this sector. The collaboration is expected to advance business analytics, management strategies, and public policy governance through drone technology. (Financial Express)

In October 2023, IG Drones entered into a partnership with iGiS, a Korean company specializing in geospatial information-based drone solutions. Announced at the North Star GITEX Global event, this collaboration aims to combine IG Drones’ expertise in enterprise drone solutions with iGiS’s geospatial capabilities to enhance surveying, mapping, and inspection services. This partnership is part of IG Drones’ strategy to expand its global presence and offer comprehensive solutions to a broader clientele. (APAC News Network)

By partnering with esteemed academic institutions and international companies, IG Drones is enhancing its research and development capabilities, contributing to disaster management strategies, and expanding its service offerings in geospatial solutions. 

Investing in Altitude: The Money Behind the Machines

The company has demonstrated significant operational success, completing over 500 projects and serving more than 500 organizations, including collaborations with the Indian Army. They raised $1 million in equity funding during a seed round held on September 19, 2024. This funding was facilitated by India Accelerator. (Tracxn)

The company’s profitability has also shown a positive trajectory. In FY 2022-23, IG Drones recorded a net profit of ₹24.1 lakh, more than double the ₹11.4 lakh achieved in the previous year.  Historically, IG Drones has experienced remarkable growth, starting with revenue of ₹7.5 lakh in FY 2018-19 and expanding to ₹415 lakh by FY 2022-23.  Their net profit has grown proportionately, from ₹0.2 lakh in 2018-19 to ₹24.1 lakh in 2022-23.

Looking ahead, IG Drones plans to raise an additional $3 million over the next six months to further expand its operations both within India and internationally. This expansion aligns with the projected growth of India’s drone industry, which is expected to reach a market size of ₹2.5 trillion by 2030. By securing additional funding, IG Drones aims to capture a significant share of this burgeoning market, particularly in the defense sector, which is driving much of the industry’s expansion. (Ciol)

Cleared for Landing: Ideas That Take Off

IG Drones is revolutionizing industries with its cutting-edge drone technology. From defense to agriculture, it provides innovative, AI-powered solutions. Their drones are redefining operations with precision mapping, advanced surveying, and real-time data analytics. The company’s focus on indigenous technology reduces dependency on foreign systems and drives India’s growth in the drone sector.

IG Drones stands out with its 5G-enabled drones, like Skyhawk, and industry-first solutions like military drone simulators. These technologies address critical challenges in sectors like disaster management, infrastructure, and precision agriculture. Their partnerships with institutions like IIT Bhubaneswar and IIM Sambalpur underline their commitment to fostering research and innovation.

IG Drones also champions skill development by training professionals in drone technology. Their Centers of Excellence ensure the ecosystem grows sustainably. With ongoing expansions and funding, IG Drones aims to remain at the forefront of the global drone market.

Inspired by IG Drones? Work on your innovative ideas. For more inspiring startup stories and technology insights, check out other articles on Venture Kites.

Lessons Questions

Lessons From IG Drones

Leverage Emerging Technologies

The Lesson & Why it Matters: Adopting emerging technologies keeps you ahead of competitors. It creates scalable, future-proof solutions.

Implementation: Invest in R&D to stay updated. Test new tools that align with your business goals.

How IG Drones Implements It: They integrated 5G and AI into their drones, enabling real-time data sharing and enhancing operational efficiency.

Collaborate for Growth

The Lesson & Why it Matters: Partnerships foster innovation and expand market reach. Collaboration helps you access expertise and resources you may lack.

Implementation: Partner with institutions, startups, or established organizations to leverage their strengths.

How IG Drones Implements It: IG Drones partnered with IIT Bhubaneswar and IIM Sambalpur to create Drone Centers of Excellence.

Build Indigenous Solutions

The Lesson & Why it Matters: Creating local solutions reduces dependency on imports and supports national growth. It ensures customized results for local challenges.

Implementation: Focus on understanding local needs. Develop products tailored to your market.

How IG Drones Implements It: They focus on building indigenous drones, reducing reliance on foreign technology.

Prioritize Skill Development

The Lesson & Why it Matters: Educating people ensures the industry’s growth. A skilled workforce is essential for innovation and operational success.

Implementation: Develop training programs and knowledge-sharing initiatives.

How IG Drones Implements It: They trained over 50,000 professionals through Drone Centers of Excellence.

Focus on Customer-Centric Solutions

The Lesson & Why it Matters: Businesses succeed when they deliver value to customers. Addressing specific customer pain points builds loyalty.

Implementation: Engage with customers. Use their feedback to improve your offerings.

How IG Drones Implements It: Their drones cater to industry-specific needs like powerline monitoring and pipeline inspections.

  • How can drone technology be used to solve pressing global issues like climate change and disaster management?

  • How can countries balance innovation with safety and regulation in the rapidly expanding drone market?

  • With advancements like 5G-enabled drones, how will real-time data analytics change industries like agriculture and defense?

Creative Head – Mrs. Shemi K Kandoth

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