A student team at the National Institute of Technology, Calicut has unveiled an autonomous quadcopter designed to support search-and-rescue operations during floods, landslides, and other climate-driven disasters. The innovation, developed by a 15-member group known as Team Paravai, marks a new step in deploying compact aerial systems for emergency response.
Student Team Aims for Practical, Field-Ready Design
Formed in August, Team Paravai set out to create a drone that could work reliably in hazardous environments where human access is limited. The project received technical guidance and financial backing from Kokos.AI, whose research and development specialists collaborated closely with the students throughout the build process. The quadcopter was showcased at SAE Aerothon 2025 in Chennai, where it drew attention for its practical, disaster-focused design.
The drone weighs just 2 kilograms and uses a frame made from 3D-printed PA12 and carbon fibre composite. This combination gives the aircraft strength while keeping the structure lightweight. The system is equipped with a communication range of up to one kilometre, enabling live video transmission to ground teams during rescue missions.
Features Built for Real-World Emergencies
The quadcopter includes a LIDAR-based collision-avoidance system to help it navigate safely through tight and obstructed spaces crucial for operations after landslides or building collapses. Its onboard sensors allow the detection of human presence from a height of up to fifteen metres, offering responders quick information in crisis zones.
The drone can also deliver small emergency supplies weighing up to 200 grams with precise drop accuracy. Its fully autonomous flight control reduces the need for constant human supervision, making it safer to operate in unpredictable disaster environments.
A Step Forward in Technology-Led Disaster Response
Officials at NIT Calicut described the project as an important contribution to the future of technology-assisted disaster management, noting that such innovations can strengthen the capabilities of rescue agencies during extreme weather events.
Team Paravai plans to refine the drone further by increasing flight endurance and adding more advanced payload options. Their goal is to develop a fully scalable model that can be deployed rapidly during major emergencies.