RC Hobbytech: The Startup Putting India’s Drone Tech on the World Map

RC Hobbytech Solutions Private Limited is one of India’s leading pioneers in drone technology, with a strong presence across Eastern India. As a DPIIT-recognized startup, we are building a future-ready drone ecosystem that blends innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth.

Our vision is rooted in advancing Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) while fostering indigenous technology, skill development, and a balance between technology, nature, and human progress. Through sustainable practices and strategic collaborations, RC Hobbytech aligns with the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and strives to position India as a global hub for aerial innovation.

Founding Story: From Bold Dreams to Drone Leadership 

The journey began when I co-founded RC Hobbytech with two close friends:

• Biswajit Dey, Ex-Gentlemen Cadet, OTA, Indian Army – now our CTO
• Debajit Deka, former Divisional Engineering Manager at Emami and ITC – now our COO

What started as a bold desire to challenge norms has grown into a key player in India’s drone ecosystem. Our mission was simple yet powerful: empower communities and industries with UAV solutions for tasks that are dull, dirty, or dangerous—automating operations and reducing human risk. - Ritesh Kanu, Co-Founder, RC Hobbytech

The early days were tough. But a breakthrough came when we landed our first DRDO order, which opened doors and built credibility. Funding soon followed, with a seed investment from Balmer Lawrie & Co. Ltd. and incubation at IIM Calcutta Innovation Park, helping us navigate the niche UAV space.

A defining milestone was executing North East India’s largest land mapping project worth ₹65 Cr under the SVAMITVA Project—a true gamechanger.

Challenges in India’s Drone Ecosystem

Over the past nine years, we’ve faced and overcome challenges that remain critical hurdles for drone startups in India:

• Funding constraints – often forcing us to bootstrap or rely on limited grant opportunities.
• Bureaucratic bottlenecks – lengthy approvals leading to serious cash flow pressures.
• Infrastructure gaps – prompting frugal innovation and in-house capability development.
• Geopolitical tensions & supply chain risks – pushing us to develop indigenous alternatives.
• Talent retention – as skilled professionals are absorbed by large corporations or move abroad.
• Innovation culture – building and sustaining it in a resource-constrained startup environment.

Despite these hurdles, our persistence has turned challenges into stepping stones, shaping us into one of India’s leading forces in the drone and UAV industry.

Key Achievements

• Top 15 Startups in India at SIDBI Investors Day
• Three-time iDEX winner, most recently in 2025
• Winner of Assam Startup Fest
• Showcased at Advantage Assam 2.0 and preparing to represent India at SWITCH 2025, Singapore
• 13+ patents granted, 22+ patents published, and a trademark secured
• Cash-positive since inception
• Earned recognition from Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi, who highlighted our innovation in a tweet

Towards India’s Drone-First Future

From a small team with big dreams to a recognized leader in India’s drone ecosystem, RC Hobbytech Solutions has always believed in pushing boundaries. With innovation, persistence, and a clear vision, we are determined to lead India’s drone revolution—empowering industries, protecting lives, and building a future-ready aerial ecosystem.

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