The day was Tuesday, an auspicious day for sending the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)-C37 rocket into space with a mission of sending 104 satellites or three times more than the accepted norms. The date was February 14, 2017. The place was the Indian Space Research Organization or ISRO’s Satish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. By successfully carrying out the mission, ISRO not only broke an earlier Russian record and created history but also inspired every Indian to believe that if we are ready to dream big and pursue our dream to its end, everything is possible. Thank you, ISRO!
One year and nearly two months later, IG Drones was established by Bodhisattwa Sanghapriya, the Founder and CEO, to provide India with highly advanced and ultra-modern drone surveying, mapping and inspection by a team of industry experts.
The day was Monday, the first day to start a new beginning. The date was April 9, 2018. Since then, with each passing day, IG Drones have been creating history and making all of us
- Very proudin progress (6500+ Surveys Processed),
- Safein growth (12000+ Drone Flights Completed), and
- Securein developments (160+ Trusted Industrial Clients).
IG Drones has partnered with multiple State Governments and 30 of the biggest PSUs and MNCs and has executed more than 500 Projects with a head office in Delhi and branch offices in Mumbai (Maharashtra), Ahmedabad (Gujarat), Kolkata (West-Bengal), Guwahati (Assam), Bangalore (Karnataka), and Bhubaneswar (Odisha).
Imagine, Inspire, and Innovate!
Sharing his stimulus behind the venture, Bodhisattva says he ardently believes that the application of theoretical knowledge is important. “In short, it was all about innovation for me. When ISRO sent that rocket into space with 104 satellites attached to it, two of which were made by students. It motivated me a lot, and I embarked on a journey of innovation that began with creating Asia’s first student-made rocket capable of reaching an altitude of around 16,000 ft.”
Drone Tech was in its nascent stage, and they (Bodhisattwa, one Co-founder, Om Prakash Das, and their team) delved into it by turning down highly paid corporate offers from campus. He adds, “The first commercial contract, measuring coal stockpiles for HINDALCO, thrust us into the corporate arena, later serving giants like L&T, Adani, JSW, JSPL, and ArcelorMittal.”
IG Drones provide specialist drone services at heights and difficult-to-access areas across India. It also offers technical end-to-end solutions to help you ease your operation. “With us, you can capture the smallest of details with ease. Thus, raise your operational standards and Imagine, Inspire, and Innovate more with us,” says Bodhisattwa.
Contributing to the Country
Today, by earning numerous awards and constant accolades, IG Drones has emerged as India’s most promising drone company. Sharing the guiding philosophy that has propelled their organization’s tremendous success, Bodhisattwa says, “Our dream of becoming India’s leading drone company is grounded in a clear philosophy: innovate responsibly for a positive impact. We believe in leveraging technology to its fullest potential while upholding ethical standards. Our success goes beyond achieving milestones; it’s about contributing meaningfully to various industries and society. We have fostered a culture that values creativity, collaboration, and a strong sense of purpose among our team members. Our journey signifies that by combining cutting-edge technology with a responsible mindset, we can shape a better future. As we continue to advance in drone technology, our commitment to innovation with purpose remains unwavering.”
The drone landscape is continually evolving. IG Drones stand out as a top innovator in the dynamic drone industry. The company’s key strengths contributing to this position include the team’s commitment to staying technologically advanced. An exceptional leader, Bodhisattwa, says, “We consistently invest in research and development to ensure our drones incorporate the latest advancements, keeping us at the forefront of the industry.”
The Sky is not the Limit!
Moreover, the team’s emphasis on customization differentiates them from competitors. They understand the diverse and unique needs of clients. “Thus, we take a personalized approach to our drone solutions, working closely with clients to understand their specific requirements.” All of this is achieved while maintaining a focus on affordability. IG Drones has innovated India’s first 5G drone and stepped ahead of the industry.
Bodhisattwa’s visionary leadership style has already been recognized as the driving force behind IG Drones’ achievements. Shedding light on his approach to leadership and team building within the organization, he says, “At the heart of my leadership philosophy is a commitment to creating a collaborative and innovative work environment. I believe in leading by example, promoting open communication, and valuing every team member’s input.”
By fostering a culture of mutual respect and inclusivity, Bodhisattwa aims to empower his team to share their best ideas and efforts. “We believe dreams, pursued with determination and a compassionate heart, redefine the future. The sky is not the limit; it’s the beginning of infinite possibilities.”
For Bodhisattwa, team building is about recognizing and utilizing the unique strengths of each team member. He prioritizes building a united and supportive team that works towards shared goals. Regular team-building activities, open forums for idea exchange, and clear communication contribute to a positive and motivated work atmosphere. Ultimately, his leadership approach focuses on nurturing a skilled and inspired team to push boundaries and achieve collective success.
Efficiently Client-Focused
The essence of drone technology lies in innovation, disruptions, accuracy, and enhancing user experience. IG Drones strikes the right balance between running things smoothly and keeping customers happy by putting innovation and user experience first. They constantly generate new ideas to stay on the cutting edge of drone technology, ensuring their operations are efficient and top-notch.
“At the same time, we listen to our customers,” says Bodhisattwa, adding that they actively seek their thoughts and keep communication open, tailoring their drone solutions to enhance their experience. “This two-sided approach, where we focus on both efficiency and meeting our customers’ needs, is what keeps our company successful in the ever-changing world of drone technology.”
The Most Pragmatic Approach
Digitalization and technological advancements are crucial aspects of the modern drone tech ecosystem. Bodhisattwa reveals that their drone company focuses on staying ahead in technology. They incorporate the latest tools and advancements directly into their operations. Whether it’s using advanced sensors or delving into data analytics, they ensure their drones are not just flying but flying smart. “We envision a future where technology doesn’t just keep up; it leads the way, and we’re at the forefront of making that happen.”
“Our approach is simple: adapt and innovate.” They closely follow technological changes, regularly updating their systems and processes to match the latest trends. “This way, we’re not just part of the drone tech evolution; we’re driving it. Our commitment to being tech-savvy isn’t just about staying relevant; it’s about actively shaping a future where technology and innovation work hand in hand, creating a brighter and smarter tomorrow.” By launching India’s first 5G drone, IG Drones has shown its calibre in building the future of technology powered by India.
IG Drones has achieved remarkable success. Highlighting the transformative feat, Bodhisattwa says one project that really stands out for them is IG Drones Skyhawk, India’s first 5G-enabled drone. This initiative was a game-changer, where the team set out to use the fast 5G connection for drone services. “The journey involved implementing state-of-the-art technology and our team’s relentless dedication.”
Committed to Excellence and Innovation
The results were remarkable, earning IG Drones’ several accolades. “This project isn’t just a success story; it symbolizes our continuous commitment to excellence and innovation. It serves as proof of our belief that drones are not just capable of flying; they have the potential to revolutionize entire industries,” believes Bodhisattwa.
As India’s leading drone solutions provider, IG Drones has pioneered the first ever indigenously developed drone simulator with the Honourable Prime Minister, Mr Narendra Modi, in attendance last year.
The workforce is the cornerstone of any successful organization. Believing in it completely, Bodhisattwa shares that at IG Drones, they prioritize a culture that supports growth, skill development, and employee empowerment. “We believe in continuous learning and offer opportunities for skill development through regular training programs and workshops.” This not only enhances the team’s capabilities but also ensures they stay ahead in the rapidly evolving drone industry.
Empowerment is a central focus. Bodhisattwa says, “We encourage open communication, value diverse perspectives, and foster a supportive environment where each team member’s contributions are recognized.”
By cultivating a culture of collaboration and innovation, they aim to empower their employees to take initiative, share ideas, and collectively drive the success of their company. “Essentially, our workforce isn’t just employees; they are essential partners in our journey of growth and technological advancement. We aim to empower ten million+ youths with advanced drone tech solutions,” he claims.
Riding the Storms
IG Drones has faced its share of challenges as a leader in India’s drone sector. Sharing an instance where his team’s resilience and ingenuity triumphed over adversity, Bodhisattwa says, “There was a tough moment that truly highlighted our team’s resilience and creativity. During the Sikkim Flash Floods in October this year, we encountered obstacles like roadblocks, network issues, and challenging weather conditions. Instead of seeing it as a setback, our team viewed it as a chance to innovate.”
Through collaborative problem-solving and tapping into the diverse skills within the team, they crafted a creative solution that not only overcame the challenge but also enhanced their capabilities. “This experience reinforced our belief in the power of resilience and ingenuity.” Moments like these showcase team IG Drones’ ability to navigate challenges and emerge stronger, establishing it as a leader in India’s dynamic drone sector.
Another instance was the COVID-19 pandemic, which has reshaped industries globally. “In response to the challenges of that time, we quickly adjusted our strategies to ensure the business continued smoothly.” With remote work becoming common, team IG Drones set up reliable digital communication platforms, ensuring its team could collaborate seamlessly. This change not only kept its operations running smoothly but also prioritized the health and safety of the team.
Additionally, recognizing changes in market demands, they adjusted their offerings to meet evolving needs. This adaptability allowed them to stay responsive to the changing landscape of the drone industry during these unusual times. “By combining technological innovation with strategic adjustments, we successfully dealt with the challenges of the pandemic, showcasing our commitment to resilience and flexibility in the face of adversity,” says Bodhisattwa.
Wisdom Wings
Drone tech is a niche of the Indian industry that demands constant innovation. For aspiring entrepreneurs venturing into the drone tech field in India, Bodhisattwa’s advice is to adopt a culture of continuous innovation. ‘Stay updated on the latest technological advancements and be prepared to adapt quickly. Building a solid network within the industry and fostering collaborations can offer valuable insights and support.’
‘Additionally, prioritize compliance and safety. The regulatory framework for drones is evolving, and adherence to guidelines is essential. Investing in robust safety measures ensures responsible operations and establishes trust with clients and regulators.’
‘Lastly, customer-centricity is the key. Understand the specific needs of your potential clients and tailor your solutions accordingly. Focusing on providing value and a positive user experience will distinguish you in this dynamic and expanding sector.’
Shaping the Future by Transcending Tomorrow
Looking to the future, IG Drones’ vision is centred on cementing its role as a leader in India’s drone industry. Bodhisattwa divulges, “We plan to keep pushing the limits of drone technology by introducing creative solutions that meet the changing needs of the industry.” By staying ahead in technological advancements, they hope to significantly contribute to India’s drone sector’s growth and progress.
He adds, “Our commitment goes beyond technological innovation; we aim to promote sustainable practices and responsible drone use.” The team wants to be a force for positive change, ensuring their impact aligns with broader environmental responsibility and safety goals. “Through these focused efforts, we aspire to shape the future of the drone industry in India, leaving a lasting and positive impact,” he concludes.
IG Drones Hall of Fame:
- Top 10 Most Recommended by CIO Insider,
- Best Drone Organization Startup by Wairwards, and
- Top 10 Drone Companies by CIO Insider.
For more information, please visit https://igdrones.com/.
