The Indian Army has pioneered the use of drone technology in a recent landslide rescue operation in Sikkim, setting a new benchmark for disaster response in challenging Himalayan terrains. This innovative approach, which integrates human efforts with cutting-edge technology, was showcased following the devastating landslides in Lachen, Sikkim, on June 1, 2025, approximately 123 km from Gangtok.

The disaster resulted in the tragic loss of three soldiers, with six others reported missing. In response to the crisis and the treacherous conditions hindering rescue efforts, the Indian Army deployed a Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) drone developed by BonV Aero, a deep-tech startup based in a Tier II city. This marked a significant shift from traditional high-altitude rescue methods, which typically involve SDRF teams, manual digging, sniffer dogs, and ground-based GPR equipment – all of which are often slow and fraught with danger.

The UAV scanned the debris from above, identifying underground anomalies with precision, guiding rescue teams to the exact locations of potential remains. The drone pinpointed two anomalies at depths of 0.76 m and 0.015 m. Subsequent excavations at both points confirmed the presence of human remains, negating the necessity for extensive and risky manual digging. This significantly accelerated the search and rescue process while minimizing risks to rescue personnel.

Satyabarata Satapathy, CEO of BonV Aero, emphasized the significance of the Army's quick adoption of their technology. He stated that the deployment of their technology within 24 hours of the disaster demonstrates a growing confidence in indigenous innovation. He added that it highlights the importance of solutions built in one part of the country being meaningfully utilized in another, precisely when needed.

The drone transmitted real-time data to a digital map, providing Army engineers with critical subsurface intelligence and enhancing situational awareness during the perilous operation. This allowed for swift decision-making and optimized resource allocation. Abinash Sahoo, CTO of BonV Aero, explained that unlike thermal cameras or canine units, which often prove ineffective when victims are buried deep or the terrain is unstable, this drone could safely scan difficult areas without disturbing the site. The GPR technology offered a crucial advantage by delivering subsurface insights that other methods could not provide.

The successful deployment of drone technology in the Lachen rescue operation underscores the potential for integrating advanced, indigenous solutions into emergency response protocols. By bridging innovation with on-the-ground action, the Indian Army and BonV Aero have established a precedent for redefining national responses to natural disasters, particularly in remote and inaccessible regions. This tech-driven approach not only saves time and reduces risk but also reshapes the future of disaster management in the country. The integration of drones equipped with GPR represents a significant leap forward, offering a safer, more efficient, and more precise method for locating individuals buried under debris, thus maximizing the chances of successful rescues.