New Delhi: The Indian School of Business (ISB), IIIT-Delhi, and the Delhi Research Implementation and Innovation Foundation (DRIIV) have set up a Centre of Excellence for Aerial and Water Robotics. The initiative aims to use robotics to address key challenges in areas like disaster management, agriculture, and environmental conservation.
Under a recently signed MoU, the Centre will focus on creating drones and underwater robots to help with tasks such as monitoring natural resources, improving healthcare access in remote areas, and inspecting infrastructure. Prof. Ashwini Chhatre from ISB’s Bharti Institute of Public Policy said the collaboration would also work on making these technologies practical and useful for local communities.
The Centre will also offer training programs to build skills in robotics, especially for people from rural and tribal areas. Prof. Pankaj Vajpayee from IIIT-Delhi said this approach could help nurture the next generation of tech experts while supporting innovation in India’s robotics sector.
Drones and underwater robots developed through this Centre will support global sustainability goals, including monitoring water quality, improving agriculture, and managing urban infrastructure. The project also emphasises capacity building, with plans for workshops and short-term courses to spread knowledge about these technologies.
This collaboration highlights the growing importance of robotics in tackling real-world challenges and advancing sustainable development in India. It reflects India’s push toward leveraging advanced technologies for solving critical issues. By combining innovation and skill development, the Centre aims to create impactful solutions for sustainability and community development.
