Dron-o-war 1.0 took place at the Jaypee Institute of Information Technology (JIIT) in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, from May 2 to 3, 2026. The event highlighted the burgeoning drone ecosystem in India, featuring participation from over 100 teams representing various educational institutions. With a prize pool of ₹20 lakhs (approximately $24,000 USD), the competition included events such as FPV racing championships, autonomous drone missions, and payload delivery challenges. The inaugural ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Lt. Gen. Anil Chandra Chait (Retd.) and representatives from the Indian Space Research Organisation and Defence Research and Development Organisation. The event aimed to act as a catalyst for innovation and skill development in unmanned aerial systems, which are increasingly important in sectors like defense and disaster management. Panel discussions addressed critical topics such as curriculum modernization and the integration of AI in drone technology, emphasizing the role of higher education in shaping a skilled workforce for the future.