Major Rajprasad receives NSG Counter IED Innovator Award (PC: Special arrangement)
New Delhi: In a major recognition in the field of military technologies, Indian Army’s Major Rajprasad RS was conferred with the National Security Guard (NSG) Counter IED Innovator Award for the year 2024–25, recently.
Commissioned by 7 Engineers of the Indian Army, Major Rajprasad has so far developed over 12 tactical innovations. Of which, four are already being inducted into the Indian Army’s operational ecosystem.
He has been awarded BY Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan for two innovations in the field of counter-IED operations – Shatrunash (destroyer of enemies) and Agniastra (weapon of fire). These devices are set to redefine battlefield tactics in both conventional battles as well as counter-insurgency operations.
Let’s know about ‘Agniastra’ and ‘Shatrunash’:--
‘Agniastra’
It is a multi-target portable remote detonation system, designed to safely detonate multiple IEDs from a distance, enhancing efficiency and troop safety in high-risk zones.
It not only demolishes enemy bunkers, bridges, and fortified structures but can also fire at multiple targets independently over long distances.
The machine is deployable manually or via UAVs/UGVs.
‘Shatrunash’
A handheld electromagnetic pulse (EMP) gun capable of disabling IED circuitry and electronic triggers, offering frontline units a tactical advantage during counter-terror and internal security operations.
It uses high-power microwave radiation.
These indigenous innovations are aimed at enhancing the Indian Army’s operational capabilities against improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and boosting troop safety during counter-terror and internal security operations.
The award ceremony, part of the National Security Guard’s (NSG) international seminar on counter-IED strategies, was attended by top defence, paramilitary, and law enforcement officials. The recognition underscores the Army’s growing emphasis on technological self-reliance and innovation under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
Prior to this, Major Ramprasad had also gained the NSG honour for his innovation ‘Xploder’.
A multi-role Kamikaze UGV for IED disposal and hideout neutralisation, ‘Xploder’ is in the process of induction in the Indian Army.
Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi had formally inducted 'Xploder' in December 2024.
His inventions have also been showcased to top dignitaries including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and the three service chiefs.
Previously, another innovation named WEDC (Wireless Electronic Detonation System) developed by the officer had been inducted.
