Civil Drone (Promotion and Regulation) Bill, 2025 Draft

What Is It?

A thorough law to manage, encourage, and ensure the safety of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) in India.

Aims to abolish the Drone Rules, 2021 and establish a strong legal structure.

Ministry: Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) – with DGCA serving as the main regulatory body.

Goal:

Guarantee the safe, secure, and responsible operation of drones.

Encourage creativity, expansion of industries, and the incorporation of drones into civilian airspace.

Ensure public safety and privacy by enforcing stricter regulations and penalties.

Main Attributes:

Compulsory Enrollment: All drones must have a Unique Identification Number (UIN).

Type Certification: Approval from DGCA required for production, sale, and operation.

Remote Pilot Requirement: A valid remote pilot certificate is essential.

Digital Sky Areas:

Green Zone: Unrestricted flying permitted.

Yellow Zone: ATC authorization required.

Red Zone: Approval from the central government required.

Mandatory Insurance: Coverage for third parties pertaining to all drone pilots.

Safety and Security Aspects: Anti-tampering, traceability, and compliance with airworthiness.

Severe Consequences:

Prison sentence: 3 months – 3 years.

Penalty: Maximum of ₹1 lakh.

Recognizable crimes for breaches in restricted areas.

Confiscation Authority: The DGCA/police have the ability to confiscate drones, electronic records, and devices upon violations.

Victim Reimbursement:

₹2.5 lakh for demise, ₹1 lakh for severe injury.

Claims managed by the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal.