- From IDEX to Innovation: Journey in Defence Technology
- Revolutionizing Border Surveillance with Intelligent UAV Solution
By Sangeeta Saxena
New Delhi. 30 November 2024. Niyoto Technologies Pvt. Ltd., a deep-tech company based in India, is making remarkable strides in developing AI and ML solutions tailored for defence and security challenges. At the Indian Navy show Swavlamban 2024 , the company showcased its groundbreaking UAV-based tunnel detection system, developed under the IDEX challenge. In this candid conversation, Dhirendra Singh Co-founder & COO discusses the company’s origins, their innovative product, and the road ahead.
ADU. How has the journey of Niyoto Technologies been so far?
Dhirendra Singh. Niyoto Technologies Pvt. Ltd. is a deep-tech company focused on solving complex problems in the defence sector using AI and ML. One of our significant milestones came when we participated in the IDEX challenge. The problem statement was to develop a solution to detect tunnels used for smuggling narcotics, weapons, and other items across the border. Our proposed solution won the challenge, and since then, we’ve been working on its development.
ADU. What exactly is the product you’re developing?
Dhirendra Singh. Our product is an end-to-end solution that uses a drone integrated with advanced hardware and AI algorithms to detect underground utilities such as tunnels and landmines. Here’s how it works-The user inputs coordinates, and the UAV autonomously surveys the specified area. It collects data, returns to base, and uploads the information into a computer running our software. The software then creates a detailed map of underground structures. It’s a highly intelligent system capable of conducting missions with minimal human intervention.
ADU. At what stage is this project currently?
Dhirendra Singh. We’re more than a year into development. The hardware has been designed and tested. Now, we’re focusing on integrating it with our machine learning algorithm, which is the heart of the system. We estimate another six months to finalize the AI and ML algorithm and an additional three months for trials. We’re well within the two-year timeline set for the project and aim to complete it by August-September 2025.
ADU. How does the system simplify operations for users like the BSF?
Dhirendra Singh. The system is designed for simplicity and efficiency. A single operator provides coordinates, and the UAV handles the mission autonomously. Upon completion, the collected data is processed to reveal underground structures, including tunnels, landmines, or even buried objects. The onboard computer manages everything—flight paths, waypoints, and data collection—making it a truly intelligent and user-friendly solution.
ADU. Beyond BSF, which other forces could benefit from this technology?
Dhirendra Singh. This system can be adapted for other paramilitary forces, the Indian Army, Air Force, and police forces. With slight modifications, it can detect landmines, IEDs, or even buried victims during avalanches or landslides. For high-altitude operations, we’d need to ruggedize components for temperature variations, but the core system remains unchanged.
ADU. Is Niyoto Technologies both the designer and manufacturer of this product?
Dhirendra Singh. Yes, we handle both design and manufacturing in-house. Every component you see in the system has been made in India, reflecting our commitment to indigenization.
ADU. Could you share more about the origin of the company’s name?
Dhirendra Singh. The name “Niyoto” comes from a dialect in eastern Uttar Pradesh, where it means “invitation.” My roots are from this region, so the name felt personal and meaningful. Interestingly, it often gets mistaken for Japanese, which adds an unexpected touch!
ADU. Anything else you’d like to share?
Dhirendra Singh. We’re thrilled to contribute to the nation’s advancement through this project. While we currently have a small team, we are focused on creating impactful solutions that address critical defence challenges.
Niyoto Technologies represents the power of innovation and determination in addressing national security challenges. With their UAV-based tunnel detection system, the company is set to redefine how India’s defence forces handle underground surveillance and border security. Their commitment to indigenization and cutting-edge AI solutions positions them as a promising player in the defence sector.
As told to Sangeeta Saxena
