In a significant recognition of military innovation, Major Rajprasad RS of the Indian Army’s 7 Engineer Regiment has been honored with the NSG Counter-IED Innovator Award. This prestigious accolade acknowledges his innovative contributions to technologies designed for the neutralization of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The award was presented during the National Security Guard’s International Seminar, which took place in New Delhi on June 11, 2025, by the Union Home Secretary.
Major Rajprasad’s groundbreaking innovations are set to transform the operational capabilities of the Indian Army, especially in high-risk terrains. Key among his inventions are Agniastra, a Multi-Target Portable Remote Detonation System, and Shatrunash, a Handheld Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) Gun. Agniastra allows for the remote safe detonation of multiple IEDs, significantly enhancing safety for ground troops. Meanwhile, Shatrunash is capable of disabling the electronic triggering mechanisms of IEDs, further ensuring the safety of frontline soldiers during counter-terror operations.
These advancements align with India’s broader initiative for technological self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign. Major Rajprasad’s portfolio of indigenous defense solutions has made notable strides, including the Xploder— a kamikaze Unmanned Ground Vehicle designed for reconnaissance and payload delivery — and the Mobile Reactive Munition System (MRMS), a sophisticated anti-tank mine system that can be deployed from aerial platforms. Both innovations garnered widespread recognition at Aero India 2025, underscoring their practicality and innovative design.
Remarkably, within just six months, three of his innovations—Agniastra, Xploder, and Vidyut Rakshak, an IoT-enabled generator monitoring system—have received approval for induction into the Indian Army. This rapid transition from concept development to deployment marks one of the swiftest advancements in recent defense history. Additionally, his earlier invention, the Wireless Electronic Detonation System (WEDC), has also been inducted into service, offering a long-range, microprocessor-controlled solution for precise demolition tasks.
The award ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials from the defense, paramilitary, and intelligence sectors, highlighting the significance of Major Rajprasad’s work and its potential impact on India’s counter-IED strategies and internal security measures. His accomplishments not only bolster operational effectiveness but also represent a beacon of innovation within India’s evolving indigenous defense landscape.
