Archive · 1 Nov 2025
IIITDM Kurnool's DRUVA Drone Deployed During Cyclone Montha
Imagine a special flying robot called DRUVA that can help people in emergencies.
It was made by smart students and teachers at a university in India.
During a big storm called Cyclone Montha, they used DRUVA to help people in a town.
The drone could make announcements, show what areas were flooded from up high, and help rescuers talk to each other.
It's like a flying helper that can also talk and see.
The people who made it want to make it even better so it can help more people in more ways, like checking on patients from afar and working with other drones to cover large areas.
It’s a big step in using new technology to keep everyone safe.
IIITDM Kurnool has developed the SmartHealth–DRUVA, a drone for emergency response and healthcare.
The drone was successfully deployed in Ongole during Cyclone Montha in collaboration with local authorities.
DRUVA facilitated emergency announcements, provided aerial visuals, and supported real-time coordination for disaster management.
The system integrates real-time video/audio communication, AI-enabled route optimization, and two-way medical communication.
The project, led by Dr. K. Krishna Naik, has reached Technology Readiness Level 7 and aims for wider implementation.
- Who
- Indian Institute of Information Technology, Design and Manufacturing (IIITDM), Kurnool
- What
- Successfully deployed the indigenously developed SmartHealth–DRUVA drone for emergency response during Cyclone Montha.
- When
- During the recent Cyclone Montha
- Where
- Ongole, in association with Prakasam district authorities and Andhra Pradesh Drones Corporation (APDC).
- Why
- To strengthen emergency healthcare delivery, public safety, and disaster response through advanced autonomous aerial technology.
- Drone Name
- SmartHealth–DRUVA
- Developed By
- IIITDM Kurnool
- Lead Investigator
- Dr. K. Krishna Naik
- Deployment Location
- Ongole during Cyclone Montha
- Key Features
- Real-time audio/video communication, AI route optimization, emergency announcements, aerial visuals
- Technology Readiness Level (TRL)
- 7