Interview Times 
FEATURE: In a world where technology shapes the future, IG Drones has taken flight as a trailblazer in India’s drone industry. Specializing in GIS surveys, topographic mapping, powerline monitoring, smart city planning, and mine inspections, the company has rapidly become a cornerstone of innovation. With a presence across critical sectors like infrastructure, railways, oil & gas, renewable energy, and more, IG Drones is redefining efficiency and precision in industrial operations.
What sets IG Drones apart isn’t just its impressive portfolio of over 500 projects or its collaborations with state governments and leading corporations—it’s the vision of its founder, Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya. Born in the small town of Burla, Odisha, his journey from a curious student at VSSUT to a pioneer in drone technology is a testament to the power of determination and innovation.
From Burla to Building Dreams
The story of IG Drones is deeply intertwined with the journey of its founder, Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya. Born in the quiet town of Burla, Odisha, Bodhisattwa’s early aspirations were to serve the nation through the National Defence Academy (NDA). However, life had other plans. His academic journey at Veer Surendra Sai University of Technology (VSSUT), Burla, ignited a passion for space and drone technology, sowing the seeds for what would later become IG Drones.
Inspired by ISRO’s remarkable satellite launches, Bodhisattwa and his peers embarked on an ambitious project to build a rocket. Funding challenges did little to deter their determination. Their rocket soared to an astounding 16,000 feet, earning a spot in the LIMCA Book of Records and garnering attention from Odisha’s Chief Minister and ISRO. This success led to the establishment of the first space innovation centre at VSSUT, a turning point that cemented Bodhisattwa’s path in technology and innovation.
Transforming Challenges into Milestones
A pivotal moment came when Bodhisattwa was invited to Russia, supported by the Odisha government, to enhance his understanding of space and drone technology. This international exposure fortified his resolve to innovate. Returning to India, Bodhisattwa spearheaded the development of the VSSUT Satellite Launch Vehicle (VSLV), which was later used to inspect the Hirakud Dam. This achievement marked the commercial debut of IG Drones with a contract from HINDALCO for coal stockpile measurements, propelling the company into the corporate arena.
Today, IG Drones boasts a clientele of industry giants like L&T, Adani, JSW, JSPL, and ArcelorMittal. With branch offices in Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Guwahati, Bangalore, and Bhubaneswar, the company’s pan-India presence reflects its exponential growth and nationwide impact.
Innovations That Redefine Industries
At the heart of IG Drones’ success lies its commitment to innovation. Among its flagship products is the Jaga Drone, equipped with high-resolution cameras, LiDAR sensors, and advanced GPS technology. Designed for diverse industries, it enhances efficiency and safety.
The company’s groundbreaking 5G-enabled Skyhawk drone, which won the UAV Tech Excellence Award at the Elets Digital Natives Summit, is set to revolutionize drone connectivity and operational efficiency. As India’s first 5G-enabled drone, the Skyhawk exemplifies IG Drones’ leadership in advanced technology.
Empowering Communities and Strengthening National Security
Beyond technology, IG Drones is a force for social transformation. Collaborating with the Odisha Skills Development Authority, the company has trained unskilled workers to become proficient drone operators, earning accolades from the National Skills Development Council.
In the defence sector, IG Drones is integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning into its drones, with applications in surveillance and anomaly detection. These advancements position the company as a key player in enhancing India’s national security and global leadership in AI-driven defence solutions.
A Vision for the Future
Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya’s leadership has turned IG Drones from a university project into a trailblazer in drone technology. With a bold vision to make India the Global Drone Hub by 2030, the company’s journey inspires a generation to dream big, innovate, and push boundaries.
Under his guidance, IG Drones is not just transforming industries but also charting a path for India’s technological future. The sky may be the limit, but for IG Drones, the journey has only just begun.
