India First Drone Policy Takes Flight: The Main Things To Do Before You Can Fly One

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has put out India's new guidelines for remotely piloted aircraft, also known as drones. The policy, which was announced in August this year, comes into effect from 1 December, reports Firstpost.

As per the new policy, Nano drones that weigh less than 250 grams need not be registered. Micro drones (weighing more than 250 grams up to 2 kg), small drones (weighing between 2 and 25 kg), medium drones (weighing up to 150 kg) and large drones (over 150 kg), all need to be registered before they start operations.

The owner of a drone will have to register on www.dgca.nic.in, and get a unique identification number or UIN, which would cost Rs 1,000. One needs to have an address proof, a permit from the police and the department of telecom. However, the cost for a fresh Unmanned Aircraft Operator Permit (UAOP) is Rs 25,000, and Rs 10,000 for renewal of UAOP.

Once the relevant documents are submitted, the UIN needs to be marked on a fire-proof plate. The plate has to be installed on the device before the drone starts operating.

The new regulations have divided the airspace into three different zones: Red Zone, where flying is not permitted, Yellow Zone, which is a controlled airspace where permission is required before flying, and Green Zone, which is uncontrolled airspace.

However, areas around airports, the international border, Vijay Chowk in New Delhi, State Secretariat complex in state capitals and other regions marked as "strategic locations/vital and military installations" come under the ‘No Drone’ Zones.

Drones, as of now in India, are only allowed to operate during daytime within visual line of sight up to a maximum altitude of 400 feet.

The guidelines are aimed to bolster innovation and technology in devices that have a wide range of applications, ranging from disaster relief to agriculture.