In News:

• The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has released the draft Civil Drone (Promotion and Regulation) Bill, 2025 for public consultation.
• The legislation seeks to create a comprehensive legal framework for the operation, promotion, and regulation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in India, replacing the existing Drone Rules, 2021.

Objective

• The Bill aims to balance innovation with accountability—promoting the growth of India’s drone ecosystem while ensuring public safety, national security, and privacy.
• It aligns with the government’s vision of leveraging drone technology for governance, logistics, agriculture, and surveillance under the Digital Indiaand Make in India initiatives.

Key Provisions

1. Regulatory Authority

• The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) will serve as the principal regulator for drone operations.
• The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) will oversee policy, promotion, and implementation aspects.

2. Scope and Exemptions

• The Bill applies to all civil unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).
• Exempted: UAS operated by the Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force) and those weighing above 500 kilograms.

3. Registration and Certification

• Mandatory Registration: Every drone must obtain a Unique Identification Number (UIN) from DGCA.
• Type Certification: Manufacturing, sale, or operation of drones requires DGCA-approved Type Certificates ensuring safety and airworthiness.
• Remote Pilot Certification: Operators must hold a valid remote pilot license from DGCA or authorized entities.

4. Airspace Regulation — Digital Sky Zones

To ensure safe integration of drones into civil airspace, the Bill formalizes Digital Sky Zones:

• Green Zone: Free flying permitted without prior clearance.
• Yellow Zone: Requires Air Traffic Control (ATC) clearance.
• Red Zone: Restricted areas; operations allowed only with Central Government approval.

5. Safety, Security, and Insurance

• Mandatory third-party insurance for all drone operators to cover liability.
• Safety Features: Anti-tampering, traceability mechanisms, and airworthiness compliance are compulsory.
• Victim Compensation:
  • ?2.5 lakh for death
  • ?1 lakh for grievous injury
  • Claims to be adjudicated by the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal.

6. Penalties and Enforcement

The Bill introduces stringent penalties to ensure responsible drone usage:

• Imprisonment: 3 months to 3 years.
• Fine: Up to ?1 lakh, or both.
• Violations of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 and Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023related to drone misuse will be cognisable offences.
• Confiscation Powers: DGCA officers, authorized personnel, or police may seize drones, electronic devices, or records if rules are violated.

7. Industry and Stakeholder Involvement

The Bill encourages industry participation and innovation while enforcing compliance. The Drone Federation of India noted that the previously liberalised Drone Rules, 2021 have now been made more stringent in response to security and safety concerns.

Significance

• Strengthens legal enforcement and ensures accountability in drone operations.
• Protects national airspace integrity and citizens’ privacy.
• Supports India’s goal of becoming a global drone hub by 2030 — an industry projected to reach USD 11 billion in value.
• Ensures balance between promotion and regulation, crucial for sectors like agriculture, logistics, disaster management, and infrastructure monitoring.