Govt says 16,000 remote pilot certificates issued for operating drones

New Delhi: As many as 16,000 Remote Pilot Certificates (RPCs) have been issued for operating drones in the country, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol told the Rajya Sabha on Monday. The certificates have been issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)-approved Remote Pilot Training Organisations (RPTOs).

In a written reply, Minister Mohol also highlighted that 48 drone companies are currently producing DGCA type-certified Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) models in India. To date, 70 models have received type certification from the regulator, signifying compliance with the established standards and safety regulations.

"The drone industry is witnessing significant growth in India. The issuance of 16,000 Remote Pilot Certificates (RPC) by DGCA-approved RPTOs is a testament to this expansion," he said. The minister also pointed out that there are currently 116 DGCA-approved RPTOs across the country, ensuring comprehensive training and certification for drone operators.

The growth of the drone industry in India is propelled by advancements in technology, favorable regulatory frameworks, and increasing applications across various sectors, including agriculture, surveillance, logistics, and disaster management. The government's proactive approach in promoting drone usage and manufacturing is expected to further accelerate the industry's expansion, creating new opportunities and contributing to economic growth.