Drones offer tremendous potential for improving efficiency in farming, from crop monitoring to pesticide spraying. However, this burgeoning sector is not without its regulatory complexities.

If you’re considering using drones for agricultural purposes, it’s essential to understand the legal and operational requirements that come with them.

In this blog, we'll break down the key regulations governing agricultural drones in India, specifically focusing on the requirements for agrarian drone operations. From classification and registration to licensing and insurance, we will help you navigate the essentials, ensuring you’re well-equipped to operate within the legal framework.

Key Takeaways

• Agricultural drone operators must obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) for commercial use, including spraying, regardless of drone category.

• All drones (except Nano drones for non-commercial use) must be registered on the Digital Sky Platform and obtain a Unique Identification Number (UIN).

• Drones are classified by weight. Small and Medium drones are most commonly used for agricultural spraying.

• Operators must complete training at a DGCA-approved RPTO to receive their RPC, ensuring they are skilled and compliant with regulations.

• Adhering to DGCA regulations and airspace restrictions is crucial, with clear rules on operating in restricted zones and using certified drones.

• Agricultural drones must meet specific safety and design standards through type certification to be eligible for commercial use.

Overview of Regulatory Framework

If you're planning to use drones in agriculture, understanding the regulations is crucial to staying compliant and avoiding penalties. In India, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is the main body regulating drone operations, including those used in agriculture. 

The regulatory framework is designed to ensure safety, security, and accountability while promoting the use of drones in farming.

Role of DGCA in Regulating Agricultural Drones

The DGCA is responsible for a few key things when it comes to agricultural drones:

1. Setting the Rules

The DGCA creates and updates the regulations for drone operations in India, most notably the Drone Rules, 2021, which replaced older, stricter regulations. These rules make it easier to operate drones while keeping safety standards intact.

2. Drone Registration

Drones (except nano-drones for non-commercial purposes) must be registered on the Digital Sky Platform, the DGCA’s online portal. When registered, the drone gets a Unique Identification Number (UIN). This is necessary for legal operation and helps ensure traceability.

3. Pilot licensing

To operate a drone for agricultural use, you need a Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC), which you can get after completing training from a DGCA-approved Remote Pilot Training Organisation (RPTO). This ensures that operators are trained in drone handling and safety, which is especially important when spraying chemicals.

4. Airspace and Permissions

DGCA restricts drone operations in certain airspaces. Airspaces are categorised into three categories, i.e, green, yellow, and red zones. Here’s a breakdown of drone operation restrictions in various airspaces: 

• Green Zones: No permission needed for flights up to 400 feet.

• Yellow Zones: Permission required from ATC or Air Defence.

• Red Zones: No drone flights are allowed unless special clearance is obtained.

Before taking off, drones must communicate with the Digital Sky Platform to get flight clearance, ensuring that the drone is operating in a legal area.

5. Type Certification

DGCA mandates that drones used for agriculture, especially those involved in spraying, must be type-certified to meet safety standards. This ensures they’re built to handle the specific tasks required for agricultural applications.

6. Penalties and Enforcement

If you don’t follow the rules, the DGCA can impose penalties, fines, or even confiscate drones. Violations are treated seriously, and the penalties can be severe.

7. SOPs for Pesticide Application

While the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare creates guidelines for pesticide spraying, the DGCA ensures that drone operations follow aviation safety standards and do not compromise public safety.

Key Aspects of the Regulatory Framework

Here’s what you need to know about operating drones for agriculture:

Safety Guidelines:

• Visual Line of Sight (VLOS): For most agricultural operations, drones must be flown within the operator’s visual line of sight.

• Altitude Limits: Drones can’t fly above 400 feet (120 meters). This keeps them clear of manned aircraft.

• Pre-Flight Checks: Before flying, check your drone for any issues, from battery life to the condition of the propellers.

• Obstacle Avoidance: Many agricultural drones come with sensors to avoid obstacles like trees and power lines. While not always mandatory, this feature helps prevent accidents.

Privacy and Data Protection:

• Respect Privacy: You must ensure that drones don’t capture images or video of people or private property without consent.

• Data Security: Any data collected by drones (like images or sensor readings) needs to be securely stored and processed according to data protection laws. Make sure your data storage complies with India’s privacy regulations.

Drone Classification and Registration

In India, drone classification and registration are foundational aspects of the regulatory framework established by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) under the Drone Rules, 2021. This system ensures accountability, safety, and proper management of drone operations.

Drone Classification by Weight:

Drones (officially referred to as Unmanned Aircraft Systems or UAS) are categorised into five classes based on their maximum all-up weight, including payload:

1. Nano: Less than or equal to 250 grams (≤ 0.25 kg)

2. Micro: Greater than 250 grams (0.25 kg) and less than or equal to 2 kg

3. Small: Greater than 2 kg and less than or equal to 25 kg

4. Medium: Greater than 25 kg and less than or equal to 150 kg

5. Large: Greater than 150 kg

Most agricultural spraying drones fall into the Small or Medium categories, given the weight of their spray tanks (which can range from 10 litres to 50 litres or more of liquid, plus the drone's weight). Large drones are used for very heavy-duty tasks.

Registration Requirements and Usage Implications:

The registration process for drones in India primarily occurs through the DGCA's Digital Sky Platform. The core principle is "No Permission, No Takeoff" (NPNT), meaning your drone must communicate with the Digital Sky platform to obtain a flight clearance before every flight.

Here's a breakdown of registration requirements and their implications:

1. Unique Identification Number (UIN):

All drones, except Nano drones used for non-commercial purposes, must be registered on the Digital Sky Platform and be issued a Unique Identification Number (UIN). This UIN is essentially the drone's licence plate and must be affixed to the drone.

Process:

• Create an account and profile on the Digital Sky Platform.

• Fill out Form D-2 (Application for Unique Identification Number) with details of your drone (make, model, serial number, specifications) and personal information.

• Upload required documents (proof of identity, proof of ownership, drone photographs).

• Pay a nominal fee (currently ₹100 for UIN application).

• Upon verification and approval, the UIN will be generated.

A valid UIN links the drone to its owner/operator, ensuring accountability and traceability. Flying a drone (except for exempted Nano drones) without a UIN is illegal and can lead to penalties, fines, and confiscation.

Type Certificate:

All drones (except exempted models like self-assembled drones under 25 kg for which UIN can be applied under the 'Model' subcategory) must possess a Type Certificate issued by the DGCA (or a QCI-recognised certification body). 

This certifies that the drone's design and manufacturing meet specific airworthiness, safety, and technical standards. Drone manufacturers or importers apply for Type Certification (Form D-1) by submitting detailed design, manufacturing, and testing reports.

This ensures that agricultural spraying drones are safe and reliable for operation, especially when carrying payloads of chemicals. Government subsidies for agricultural drones often mandate that the drones must be type-certified.

Considering how these regulations impact your farming operations? Leher can help you understand and adopt the latest drone solutions that are compliant with the rules on your farm.

Licence and Certification for Drone Operation

Operating drones, especially for commercial purposes like agricultural spraying, requires obtaining the proper licences and certifications. It is to ensure that drone operators are competent and that drone operations are safe and secure.

Training and Certification for Drone Operators at DGCA-Approved RPTOs

Wondering how to obtain a drone flying licence in India? To obtain an RPC, drone operators must undergo structured training at a DGCA-approved Remote Pilot Training Organisation (RPTO). These Organisations are certified by the DGCA and offer training that meets the required standards to ensure operators are fully prepared to handle drones safely and efficiently.

Eligibility Criteria for Remote Pilot Certificate

Before enrolling in training, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Age: Between 18 and 65 years.

• Education: Must have passed at least the 10th-grade examination.

• Nationality: Must be an Indian citizen.

• Medical Fitness: A valid medical fitness certificate is required, issued by a DGCA-approved medical practitioner.

• Training: Successful completion of a DGCA-approved RPTO training program.

Process of Obtaining RPC

1. Enroll in an RPTO:
   Choose a DGCA-approved RPTO. These Organisations are listed on the Digital Sky Platform and include various training centres, including those affiliated with agricultural universities and drone manufacturers.

2. Complete Training:
   Training typically lasts 5-8 days, depending on the drone category. This includes both theoretical and practical components designed to ensure that you understand both the technical and regulatory aspects of drone operation.

3. Pass Assessments:
   You’ll need to clear both theoretical exams (covering topics like aviation law, meteorology, and airspace management) and practical flight tests to demonstrate your ability to operate drones safely.

4. RPC Application:
   Upon successful completion, the RPTO will apply for the RPC on your behalf via the Digital Sky Platform (Form D-4), after which you’ll pay a nominal fee (currently ₹100).

5. RPC Issuance:
   Once your application is approved, the DGCA will issue your RPC, which typically arrives within 15 days.

Key Aspects of RPTO Training Curriculum

Training at a DGCA-approved RPTO includes the following core areas:

• Air Law and Regulations: Understanding the Drone Rules, 2021, airspace classifications, and compliance requirements.

• Flight Principles: Basics of aerodynamics specific to different drone types (multi-rotor, fixed-wing, hybrid).

• Airspace Structure: Knowledge of controlled airspace, permissions, and procedures for interacting with Air Traffic Control (ATC).

• Meteorology: Understanding weather conditions and their effects on drone operations.

• Drone Equipment & Maintenance: Familiarity with the drone’s anatomy, pre-flight checks, battery management, and troubleshooting.

• Payloads and Applications: Understanding payload systems, like sprayers, and how to maximise your crop yield with a pesticide spraying drone.
  Safety Management: Learning to assess risks, handle emergencies, and follow safety protocols to avoid accidents.

• Practical Flying:

  • Simulator Training: Practice using simulators to familiarise yourself with drone controls.

  • Flight Training: Hands-on flying sessions that include everything from take-off and landing to mission planning and executing agricultural spraying tasks.

Validity of RPC

Once issued, the Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) is valid for 10 years. However, the certificate can be suspended or cancelled if the operator violates any regulations. The RPC must also be listed on the Digital Sky Platform, which keeps track of all drone licences and operations.

Wondering where to get your DGCA-approved Remote Pilot Certificate? Leher provides comprehensive drone flying training and issues DGCA-approved certificates, helping you seamlessly adopt compliant agri-drone Practices.

Licence Requirements for Different Drone Categories

Conclusion

The DGCA’s regulations are clear, but they require you to be thorough and prepared. Follow the rules, stay compliant with the necessary certifications, and ensure that your operations are safe and legal.

In doing so, you'll not only avoid legal trouble but also contribute to a growing, responsible drone industry in India.

To truly embrace the future of farming with compliant and efficient drone technology, consider how Leher can support your journey. We connect farmers with certified drone spraying services, making advanced agriculture accessible and sustainable.

Download the Leher app from the Google Play Store or App Store today to book precise drone sprays, manage your farm efficiently, and truly experience the future of farming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is it necessary to get a licence for agricultural drones?
A. Yes, it is mandatory to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) for operating agriculture drones that are used for commercial purposes like spraying. This licence ensures that operators are properly trained and meet the legal requirements for safe drone operation under the Drone Rules, 2021.

Q. What are the basic requirements for agricultural drones in India?
A. The basic agricultural drone requirements include registering the drone on the Digital Sky Platform, obtaining a Unique Identification Number (UIN), and ensuring the drone is type-certified by the DGCA. Additionally, operators need to hold an RPC for commercial use, especially for spraying activities.

Q. What are the agricultural drone sprayer laws in India?
A. Agricultural drone sprayer laws in India dictate that drones used for spraying must comply with the DGCA’s safety guidelines and airspace regulations. These include obtaining necessary permissions, using type-certified drones, and following safety protocols like pre-flight checks and restricted zone awareness.

Q. What is the process to obtain a licence for agricultural drones?
A. To obtain a licence, you must complete training at a DGCA-approved RPTO and pass both theoretical and practical exams. Afterwards, you can apply for the Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC), which is required for operating drones commercially, such as for agricultural spraying.

Q. What are the legal requirements for using an agricultural drone sprayer in India?
A. The agriculture drone sprayer laws in India require that the drone be registered, certified by the DGCA, and operated by a licensed pilot. Additionally, all flights must adhere to the No Permission, No Takeoff (NPNT) system, ensuring drones are cleared for flight through the Digital Sky Platform.

Q. What are the agricultural drone requirements for operators in India?
A. Operators must be at least 18 years old, a citizen of India, and medically fit to operate agricultural drones. They also need to undergo training at a DGCA-approved Remote Pilot Training Organisation (RPTO) to receive the Remote Pilot Certificate (RPC) necessary for commercial drone operations.