Argus News - Odisha to Build Robot Army with ₹300 Crore IG Drones Project

Bhubaneswar, Feb 13: Odisha is set to become an advanced defencetechnology hub. Odisha Industry Minister Sampad Swain announced the establishment of a “Robot Army” project, which will be deployed at Indian borders.

Odia startup IG Drones, which has already showcased its capabilities during Operation Sindoor with cutting-edge drone technology, will spearhead the initiative.

The Odisha government has approved IG Drones’ proposal to invest ₹300 crore in the project. The project is expected to generate over a thousand employment opportunities.

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The company will focus on multi-drone manufacturing, including suicidal drones, missile systems, and AI-powered military robots. These advanced drones, capable of carrying explosives for precision strikes, will be produced in Odisha, marking a significant leap in indigenous defence manufacturing.

The AI-driven military robots will be designed to patrol border areas, enhancing national security with futuristic technology.

This announcement comes against the backdrop of Odisha’s growing industrial landscape under the BJP government. Since coming to power, projects worth over ₹7.7 lakh crore have been approved, with ₹2.5 lakh crore worth of 108 projects already reaching the groundbreaking stage.

Major industrial developments are also underway across the state. In Cuttack, Welspun has commenced operations, while in Keonjhar, POSCO and JSW are jointly working on a steel plant. Land acquisition for the steel project has begun through gramsabhas, with a target to complete construction by 2029.

The Robot Army project highlights Odisha’s emergence as a centre for innovation, blending defence technology with industrial growth. With IG Drones leading the charge, Odisha is poised to contribute significantly to India’s defence preparedness while creating new opportunities for skilled youth.