Over 29,500 drones registered in India: Which state has most?
What's the story
Official data from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) shows that over 29,500 drones are registered in India.
The national capital tops the country with the most number of registered drones at 4,882.
Delhi is followed by Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra with 4,588 and 4,132 registered drones, respectively.
The data, updated till January 29, showed a total of 29,501 registered drones across the nation.
State-wise distribution
Other states with high drone registration
Apart from Delhi, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra, other states also have a large number of registered drones. These include Haryana (3,689), Karnataka (2,516), Telangana (1,928), Gujarat (1,338) and Kerala (1,318). The information was shared by the Civil Aviation Ministry with the Rajya Sabha this week.
Certification details
DGCA's certification process for drone models
So far, the DGCA has issued 96 Type Certificates to different Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) models or drones. Of these certified models, 65 are specifically designed for agricultural use.
Each registered drone is given a Unique Identification Number (UIN) from the Digital Sky Platform, which is managed by the DGCA.
Pilot certification
Remote pilot certificates and government's efforts to promote drones
DGCA-authorized Remote Pilot Training Organizations (RPTOs) have issued 22,466 Remote Pilot Certificates (RPCs).
In a written response, Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol said that the central government has taken several steps to promote drone technology across sectors.
Regulation changes
Eased norms and drone airspace map
The ministry had amended regulations in August last year, doing away with the requirement of a passport for drone registration and de-registration/transfer.
Now, documents such as voter ID, ration card or driving license can be used for the same.
A drone airspace map was introduced, dividing the airspace into three zones - green, yellow and red.