The Ministry of Civil Aviation notified the Drone Rules, 2021 in August 2021, replacing earlier, more restrictive rules. Key points for agricultural users:
Digital Sky platform
Registration, unique identification numbers (UIN), remote pilot certificates and airspace permissions are handled online through the Digital Sky platform.
Type certification & UIN
Drones need to be type-certified (or exempted) and registered to receive a UIN before operation.
Remote Pilot Certificate
Operating drones other than nano and non-commercial micro drones requires a Remote Pilot Certificate obtained after training at a DGCA-authorised Remote Pilot Training Organisation.
Airspace zones
- Green – generally no permission required within prescribed limits
- Yellow – permission from the air traffic control authority required
- Red – flying only with Central Government permission
Agricultural spraying
The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare has issued Standard Operating Procedures for pesticide application using drones, and only products approved for drone application should be used.
Important: Rules are amended from time to time. Always confirm current requirements on official DGCA, Digital Sky and Ministry websites before buying or operating.
