In a significant advancement towards addressing the persistent issue of landmines, Digital University Kerala (DUK) has unveiled an innovative mine detection system to enhance the safety of Indian Army. This groundbreaking technology, developed by the university’s School of Electronic Systems and Automation, utilizes advanced machine learning, radar, and drone technologies to identify buried explosives accurately.
The campus of Digital University Kerala is a vibrant hub of discovery, bustling with intellectual and dynamic debates. Here, sustainable campus architecture does more than serve as a mere setting for academic activities; it stands as a beacon of innovation. This eco-friendly design not only inspires those on campus but also actively supports and propels the university’s lofty goals forward.
Dr. Alex P. James, the Dean of External Linkages at DUK and the project’s lead, officially presented the new system to Brigadier Salil M.P., commander of the 91 Infantry Brigade and station commander at Pangode Military Station. This handover marked a pivotal moment in the partnership between academia and military expertise.
Dr. Alex P. James, the University Dean (Academics) at Digital University Kerala, one of the top scientists worldwide, ranking among the top 1% in a prestigious survey. Conducted by researchers from Stanford University and Elsevier BV, a Netherlands-based publishing company, Dr. James has achieved a remarkable ranking of 199 out of 111,935 global scientists in the field of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, placing him fifth among his peers in India.
The new system is designed to be both lightweight and cost-effective, resulting from extensive research and testing conducted by DUK’s dedicated researchers. It can swiftly and accurately locate landmines through aerial drone surveys and ground-based radar, which are processed using sophisticated machine learning algorithms.
During the handover ceremony, Brigadier Salil M.P. expressed his appreciation for the system and highlighted its potential to revolutionize mine-clearing operations. “This technology not only promises to protect our troops but will also expedite the clearing of mine-affected regions, allowing for quicker rehabilitation of these areas,” he remarked.
The system has already received recognition by securing a spot in the 54 Infantry Division’s inter-divisional competition, marking the first collaboration between the university and the Indian Army. This technology could make a significant difference in areas still affected by conflict, where landmines pose a serious threat.
Notably, the project focuses on practical applications, developed with direct input from military experts, to ensure it can withstand the demanding conditions of field operations. “Our objective was to create a system that works in theory and operates effectively in the challenging terrains our soldiers encounter daily,” Professor James explained.
Looking ahead, the ongoing collaboration between DUK and the Indian Army will strive to refine and enhance the system’s capabilities further. This partnership underscores a mutual commitment to leveraging technology for societal benefit, particularly in combating the pervasive threat of landmines that impede economic development and endanger lives.
Professor James is optimistic about the future impact of this technology. “With each improvement, we’re not just advancing technology—we’re helping to ensure a safer future for individuals in affected regions,” he added.
This initiative exemplifies the power of innovative solutions to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges. It aligns with global efforts to eliminate the threat of unexploded landmines and restore safety to the most vulnerable areas.
