The central government has increased its allocation for business incentives by 37.5%, raising the total to Rs 165 crore over the next three years to bolster India’s goal of becoming a global drone hub by 2030. The Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for drones and components, introduced in September 2021 with Rs 120 crore, now benefits from this enhanced funding.
The scheme aims to promote local industry, reduce import dependency, and create jobs in this growing sector. The federal budget allocated Rs 57 crore for the current financial year, up from Rs 33 crore in 2023-24, aligning with the Economic Survey 2023-24’s vision of relaxed rules and incentives.
Progress includes 116 DGCA-approved remote pilot training organizations issuing 16,000 certificates, type certification for 70 unmanned aircraft systems, and 48 Indian drone manufacturers. Over 400 startups operate in the field. Industry experts, like Mark Martin of Martin Consulting, welcome the increased funding but urge continued government support for local manufacturing and training.
