Kumaraguru Institutions unveil India’s first student-built submarine and racing boat

Kumaraguru Institutions on Saturday unveiled India’s first student-built human-powered submarine and an advanced electric racing boat, marking a major achievement in maritime innovation and engineering education.
The vessels were launched at the Kumaraguru Institutions campus by Captain Pradeep Premkumar, Executive Officer of INS Agrani, and Craig Mario D’Mello, Founder and Director of 6th Element Engineering, Bengaluru.
Designed and developed entirely by students of Kumaraguru College of Technology (KCT) and Kumaraguru College of Liberal Arts and Science (KCLAS), the projects will represent India at prestigious international competitions this year.
Team InCraft has developed the country’s first student-built human-powered submarine and will participate in the European International Submarine Races (eISR) from June 29 to July 10.
Operated by a SCUBA-equipped pilot through a chain-driven pedal mechanism, the submarine features a biomimicry-inspired “Swift Bird” control system and an eco-friendly oyster shell powder coating for enhanced durability.
Team Sea Sakthi unveiled its fifth-generation electric racing boat, Yali 5.0, ahead of the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge (MEBC) scheduled from July 8 to 11.
The vessel incorporates an indigenous contra-rotating propulsion system, a Phase Change Material-based battery thermal management system and advanced aerodynamic features.
Institution officials said the projects provide students with valuable global exposure and practical engineering experience while showcasing India’s growing capabilities in sustainable marine technology and innovation.