‘Landmark moment’: Government issues fresh rules for drone usage

The Centre on Thursday issued fresh norms for  usage of drones. 

Calling it a landmark moment, Prime Minister Modi said the new rules are based on the ‘premise of trust and self-certification’. He further added that the new drone rules will tremendously help start-ups and the youth working in this sector as well as open up new possibilities for innovation and business.

According to the new rules no security clearance is now required before any registration or licence issuance for the operation of drones. No remote pilot licence will be required for micro-drones for non-commercial use and nano-drones. Online registration of all drones will happen through the Digital Sky Platform.

Also, the fees for permissions to operate drones have been reduced to nominal levels.

Drone corridors will be developed for cargo deliveries and the coverage of drones under Drone Rules 2021 has increased from 300 kilograms to 500 kilograms to include drone-taxis too.

The interactive airspace map with green, yellow, and red zones will be displayed on the digital sky platform.

There will be no restriction on foreign ownership in Indian drone companies and the maximum penalty under Drone Rules, 2021 has been reduced to ₹ one lakh.

All drone training and examination to be carried out by an authorised drone school. Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) shall prescribe training requirements, oversee drone schools and provide pilot licences online.

The new rules are believed to have been designed to usher in an era of super-normal growth while balancing safety and security considerations.