(a) whether the Government proposes to implement a policy for use of drone for commercial and civil purpose without affecting national security system;
(b) if so, the details thereof including timeline and approach for the implementation of this system;
(c) the details of present system to control the usage of drone;
(d) whether the Government proposes to allow commercial use of drones in any part of the country in pilot phase; and
(e) if so, the details thereof?
Minister of State in the Ministry of CIVIL AVIATION
(Dr Mahesh Sharma)
(a) & (b) International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has not yet issued Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) for certification and operation of civil drones. However, as an interim measure DGCA has finalized a draft Air Transport Circular (ATC) regarding Guidelines for obtaining Unique Identification Number (UIN) & operation of civil Drones/Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) in consultation with various stakeholders including security agencies like MHA. The draft ATC has been uploaded in DGCA website, (www.dgca.nic.in) for public comments.
(c) As of now, the civil use of drones/UAS by non-Government agencies, organizations or individual is restricted vide DGCA public notice dt. 07-10-2014 also available in www.dgca.nic.in to regulate unwarranted use of drones and for the safety of manned aircraft/ air space & personnel until regulations for drones are in place. The Government organizations have to obtain no-objection from DGCA for the use of drones. The Public notice was communicated by DGCA to Chief Secretaries and DGPs of all states and UTs.
(d) Currently, there is no such proposal with DGCA.
(e) Does not arise