Why Drones Aren’t Sold in India - Regulations Explained
Explore why drones aren't sold in India, uncover key regulations, and learn legal ways for photographers to acquire and fly UAVs safely.
When working with Indian drone policy, the collection of rules, permits, and guidelines that control how drones are imported, registered, and flown across India. Also known as UAV regulations India, it determines what you can do with a UAV, where you can operate it, and which authorities you must notify.
The backbone of Indian drone policy is the drone licence, the official permission issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) that lets a person or company operate a UAV commercially or for certain hobby purposes. Without a licence, you risk fines, seizure, or even criminal charges. DGCA, India’s civil aviation regulator that enforces drone policy, issues licences, and monitors airspace safety sets the licence categories, weight limits, and training requirements. The policy also mandates drone tracking, technology and legal mechanisms that let authorities locate and identify drones in real time, often tied to Remote ID requirements. This tracking influences privacy considerations and forces operators to broadcast identification data during flight. Finally, drone shows, coordinated light displays using multiple UAVs that require special event permits and compliance with safety guidelines are a growing segment, but they must obtain separate clearances, adhere to crowd‑control rules, and respect no‑fly zones. In short, Indian drone policy encompasses licence rules, requires compliance with DGCA oversight, leverages tracking for safety, and regulates public spectacles through dedicated permits.
Below you’ll find a curated set of articles that break down each piece of the puzzle. From moving a drone from Dubai to India and handling customs duties, to understanding how police can track DJI models, to step‑by‑step guides on getting a licence or planning a drone light show, the collection covers practical tips, legal nuances, and real‑world examples. Dive in to see how the policy plays out in everyday scenarios and to get actionable advice for staying on the right side of the law.
Explore why drones aren't sold in India, uncover key regulations, and learn legal ways for photographers to acquire and fly UAVs safely.