Imagine if there were no rules and regulations to govern a discipline or profession, all would have ended up in an anarchy of sorts. This is the reason why there are rules and regulations laid down. The people exercising that profession should abide by the rules and regulations laid by the governing body. When it comes to drone piloting and aviation in India, it is directed by the DGCA.
The new drone regulations for drone pilots came into effect on the 27th of September 2023.
The alteration in the regulations aims to further liberalize, endorse and facilitate drone operations in the nation and make India a global drone hub by the end of this decade.
As per a notification of the Ministry of Civil Aviation Post amendment, it is made clear that an identity proof and address proof are now accepted to apply for a Remote Pilot Certificate if a person does not have a valid passport. The mandate of having a passport was becoming a hurdle for aspiring drone pilots, particularly in the agricultural industry in the country, as per the ministry.
As per a drone regulator DGCA, no one other than one who holds a valid remote pilot certificate will operate an unmanned aircraft system in India. However, no Remote Pilot Certificate is needed if a drone is of small to medium size up to 2kg for non-commercial drone usage.