Dog-repelling stick developed by students soon to be patented

At a time when the stray dog menace is giving nightmares to pedestrians across the State, a unique device developed by three former students of Government High School (GHS), Vadasseri, near Areacode in Malappuram, is in the process of getting patented. The product, Dog-Repelling Stick, developed under the guidance of their physics teacher K. Pragit when they were students at the school, had been showcased at the 2024 School Innovation Marathon.

Abhishek P., Nihal V.P., and Sadhin Muhammed Subair, then students of Class 10, were guided by Mr. Pragit to build the prototype in 2024. Their prototype was among the 27 winners selected at the 2024 marathon, jointly organised by the Union Ministry of Education, Atal Innovation Mission, Innovation Cell, and NITI Aayog. The recognition carried a scholarship of ₹50,000 and training to streamline and market the product.

The Dog-Repelling Stick is a 10-inch foldable device fitted with buttons. It emits ultrasonic sound, flickering light, an unpleasant smell, and a mild electric shock — all designed to repel dogs. It also includes a torch, making it useful for night travellers. 

“We were chosen from nearly one lakh ideas presented at the marathon. We also received training on further developing the product,” said Mr. Pragit.

GHS Vadasseri was the only government school from Kerala to feature in the final 27.

The team presented their product in Delhi during the fifth anniversary celebrations of the National Education Policy on July 29, 2025. “Presenting the product at Bharat Mandapam was a unique experience. We met several innovators, scientists, and eminent personalities. The training on patenting will also be useful soon,” Nihal said. The prototype cost the team around ₹10,000, but they are confident of bringing down the market price to below ₹3,000. “Once we patent it, we expect support from multinational companies,” added Mr. Pragit.

The team’s success has inspired several other students in the school to participate in State- and national-level competitions. While Kerala’s school science fairs often produce novel ideas, few make it to the market. “The innovation marathon was about solving public issues through creativity. Its goal is to turn students into entrepreneurs rather than mere job seekers,” Mr. Pragit said.