Assam Rifles and IIIT Manipur Sign MoU to Enhance Drone Technology for Defence and Security.
Defence
In a significant move towards modernizing border security operations, the Assam Rifles has partnered with the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) Manipur. On August 18, 2025, both institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Mantripukhri, Imphal West district, aiming to advance drone technology for defence and security purposes.
- The MoU underscores the growing importance of defence-academia partnerships in leveraging emerging technologies. Maj Gen Ravroop Singh, Inspector General of Assam Rifles (South), and Prof. Krishnan Baskar, Director of IIIT Manipur, highlighted the transformative role of drone systems in modern warfare and emphasized the need for joint initiatives to accelerate technology adoption in defence operations.
- As part of the collaboration, an 'Advanced Drone Training and Refresher Course' was inaugurated. The program focuses on drone flight operations, maintenance, and certification aligned with Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) standards.
- It aims to enhance the technical proficiency and field adaptability of Assam Rifles personnel, enabling them to effectively deploy drones in challenging terrains for surveillance, reconnaissance, and logistics support.
Main Point :- (i) The partnership highlights a commitment to indigenization of drone systems. A technical session during the event focused on the relevance of developing and deploying indigenous drone technologies to achieve autonomy and resilience in defence operations.
(ii) The integration of advanced drone technology is expected to significantly enhance the surveillance and operational capabilities of the Assam Rifles. Drones will play a crucial role in intelligence gathering, border monitoring, and rapid response operations, particularly in the challenging terrains of the northeastern region.
(iii) This initiative reflects a broader effort to strengthen civil-military synergy. By involving academic institutions like IIIT Manipur, the Assam Rifles aims to foster innovation and skill development, empowering personnel with modern technological tools to address contemporary security challenges.
About Assam
Chief minister: Himanta Biswa Sarma
Governor: Lakshman Acharya
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