Doda student engineers low-cost drone with 2-km range, 500g payload capacity

Doda, July 04: Marking a significant innovation, Maninder Pal Singh, a 20-year-old mechanical engineering student from Doda, has developed a fully functional handmade drone capable of flying up to 2 kilometres while carrying a payload of 500 grams. The battery backup of the drone is also said to be efficient, making it suitable for various field applications.The young innovator, driven by a lifelong interest in electronics, says the inspiration came from his father, who also worked in the field. “Since childhood, I’ve been building things. I once created a waterfall model from a newspaper in school and won a prize for it,” Maninder said while speaking to Rising Kashmir.Singh’s drone features an inbuilt flight controller, GPS, motors, propellers, a receiver, battery, and Electronic Speed Controllers (ESC). “The flight controller is the brain of the drone, and ESC transmits signals to the motors,” he explained. The three-phase motor setup includes positive, negative, and signal wires essential for its functioning.Many components were sourced online, while others were either 3D printed by Maninder himself or sent by a friend from London. “One of the most expensive parts, which sells for around Rs 20,000 in India, was sent by my friend from London where it costs nearly Rs 8,000,” he said.He estimates the total cost of building the drone to be around Rs 40,000, far cheaper than similar market models priced at Rs 1 lakh or more.Despite his achievements, Maninder has remained away from the spotlight. “I don’t like being in front of the camera. My father insisted I present my work,” he said.He recently showcased the drone before the Deputy Commissioner of Doda, who appreciated the innovation and encouraged him to continue his efforts.Maninder, who also built model aircraft earlier, has not yet approached manufacturing companies. “I’m waiting for my final exams. After that, I plan to take it forward,” he said, expressing confidence in his potential.With a dream to showcase his work on national platforms, Maninder said, “I want to see myself flying the Tricolour on Independence Day with pride and purpose.”Harvinder Singh, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Doda told reporters that Maninder has developed a drone and encouraged other students to come forward, showcase their talent, and hone their skills.DC said that the administration is ready to play its part in supporting such initiatives.He expressed hope that Maninder’s innovative use of 3D printing technology, along with the spare parts he sourced from various places to build a highly economical drone model, will open doors for him in the field of aeronautical engineering. Adding, that his education, can help him become a great scientist and manufacturer, bringing pride and recognition to the region.