IIT Guwahati Startup Develops AI-Powered Robots for Border Surveillance, Grabs DRDO’s Attention

IIT Guwahati-incubated startup Da Spatio Rhobotique Laboratory Pvt. Ltd. (DSRL) has developed AI-powered robots designed for border surveillance. These autonomous robots provide a more advanced security solution compared to traditional methods like drones, stationary cameras, and human patrols. They are built to withstand rough terrains and extreme weather conditions, ensuring uninterrupted monitoring without endurance limitations.

The system features seamless pole-to-pole movement, enabling continuous real-time surveillance of international borders. Kumar Barman, CEO of DSRL, emphasizes the innovation’s potential to enhance security operations using AI and automation. This breakthrough has drawn the attention of India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), which recognizes its capability to strengthen border security. Unlike stationary surveillance systems, these robots offer greater flexibility and mobility, improving threat detection and response efficiency. By reducing reliance on human intervention, this technology could help minimize security risks while advancing AI-driven defense solutions.

IIT Guwahati Startup Develops AI-Powered Robots for Border Surveillance, Grabs DRDO’s Attention

A tech startup incubated at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, Da Spatio Rhobotique Laboratory Pvt. Ltd. (DSRL), has introduced a cutting-edge solution to enhance border surveillance: autonomous robots powered by artificial intelligence (AI). These robots overcome the limitations of traditional security methods—such as drones, fixed cameras, and manual patrols—by operating efficiently in harsh environments and unpredictable weather conditions while maintaining uninterrupted vigilance.

Limitations of Conventional Border Security

Currently, border monitoring relies heavily on drones, stationary cameras, and human patrols. While these methods serve their purpose, they come with significant drawbacks. Drones have limited flight time due to battery constraints and struggle in extreme weather, such as heavy rain, snow, or storms. Stationary cameras, though useful, have a fixed field of view, creating blind spots in surveillance. Human patrols, while essential, face risks such as fatigue, exposure to hazardous conditions, and difficulty navigating rough terrain like mountains, deserts, or dense forests. These challenges make border security vulnerable, particularly in remote or difficult terrains.

DSRL’s Innovative Solution

DSRL’s AI-powered robots aim to eliminate these security gaps. Designed to operate autonomously, these machines can move seamlessly across uneven terrain—whether rocky slopes, muddy trails, or sandy deserts—without human intervention. Their rugged design enables them to withstand extreme temperatures, heavy rainfall, and strong winds, making them well-suited for India’s diverse climate zones. Unlike drones, they don’t suffer from endurance issues and can operate continuously for extended periods.

A standout feature is their “seamless pole-to-pole movement,” as described by DSRL’s CEO, Kumar Barman. This allows the robots to travel between designated checkpoints (such as border poles or markers) without interruption, ensuring 24/7 real-time monitoring of vast international borders. Equipped with real-time data transmission capabilities, these robots relay live updates to security control centers, enabling quick responses to suspicious activities such as unauthorized crossings or potential threats.

How These Robots Work

The robots combine AI, machine learning, and advanced sensors to navigate and analyze their surroundings. Their AI algorithms help them detect anomalies, such as human movement, vehicles, or unattended objects, while distinguishing routine activity (e.g., wildlife) from genuine threats. They can follow predefined routes or adapt their paths dynamically based on real-time inputs. For example, if a robot detects an unusual activity, it can pause to investigate further or alert security forces to respond.

Additionally, their modular design allows for customization. Depending on the mission, the robots can be fitted with thermal cameras for night vision, communication systems to coordinate with other security units, or robotic arms to remove obstacles.

Recognition from Defense Experts

The innovation has attracted interest from India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), a key player in national security technology. DRDO sees potential in integrating these robots into existing border security networks to create a more advanced, multi-layered defense system. For example, these robots could complement drone patrols by covering areas where drones cannot operate continuously. Additionally, they could reduce the reliance on human patrols in high-risk zones, minimizing exposure to dangerous conditions.

Why This Matters

India’s borders stretch over 15,000 kilometers, covering diverse and challenging terrains, from the icy Himalayas to the marshy Sundarbans. Securing these borders is critical for national safety, yet traditional methods often fall short due to environmental and logistical limitations. DSRL’s robots provide a scalable, cost-effective, and reliable alternative. By automating surveillance, they not only enhance border security but also free up human personnel for strategic operations.

Looking Ahead

According to Kumar Barman, this technology is still evolving. Future improvements may include integrating solar power for sustainable energy and enhancing AI capabilities to predict threats using historical data. Collaboration with agencies like DRDO could accelerate deployment, particularly in sensitive border regions where security is a top priority.

As security challenges become increasingly complex, innovations like DSRL’s robots represent a shift toward smarter, AI-driven solutions. By merging artificial intelligence with rugged engineering, this startup is paving the way for a future where technology plays a central role in safeguarding borders and nations.