The government of Indian has facilitated the establishment of 164 Remote Pilot Training Organisations (RPTOs) across the country to meet the growing demand for drone pilots. Of the 164 training schools, 24 are government operated. The Indian government is one among the few that has been proactive in promoting drone technology in various industries such as agriculture.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is the one that oversees the authorisations of RTPOs under the Drone Rules, 2021 to ensure compliance for pilot training and certification. DGCA has also certified 101 different unmanned aircraft models, 70 of which are dedicated to agricultural applications, reflecting a strong push for drones in precision farming and rural development. Each registered drone is issued a Unique Identification Number (UIN) from the Digital Sky Platform operated by the DGCA. The DGCA-authorised Remote Pilot Training Organisations (RPTOs) have issued 22,466 Remote Pilot Certificates (RPCs).
The data from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) updated till January 29 showed that there were 29,501 registered drones. In a written response, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol shared information indicating that the Central government has implemented several initiatives to promote the use of drone technology in different sectors.
One of the key actions taken was the amendment of regulations in August 2024, which eliminated the need for passports when registering, de-registering, or transferring drones.
The operation of drones within the green zone does not necessitate prior authorization, whereas the relevant Air Traffic Control authority must endorse the deployment of drones in the yellow zone. Conversely, for the utilization of drones within the red zone, explicit permission must be obtained from the Central government.
Some of India’s Initiatives To Promote Drone Adoption
- Opening up of more airspace, almost 90% of Indian airspace put as green zone with flying of drone up to 400 feet. This was through the Drone Airspace Map published on the 24th of September 2021.
- In September 2021, the government through the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme notified to promote the growth of drone manufacturing by private companies and the scheme provided an incentive of Rs 120 crores, spread over 3 years. The PLI rate is 20% of the value addition over three financial years.
- Easier drone manufacturers certification through the drone certification scheme in January 2022
- Drone import ban to promote local drone manufacturing except for specific purposes (R&D, defense, etc.). Import of drone components however is allowed.
- Digital Sky Platform: A platform that allows self-registration, permission generation, and management of drone operations, including access to airspace maps and operational guidelines.
With the government and policy support, the drone industry in India is poised for enormous growth.
