Govt invites applications from drone industries under PLI scheme

New Delhi: The Government has invited applications from drone industries under the Production Linked Incentive scheme. The Civil Aviation Ministry said, applications can be submitted till 31st of March.

The Ministry said, PLI scheme was notified on 30th September last year and the total incentive is 120 crore rupees spread over three financial years. The PLI rate is 20 per cent of the value addition, one of the highest among PLI schemes. 

Coverage of the scheme includes developers of drone-related software also. PLI for a manufacturer shall be capped at 25 per cent of total annual outlay. This will allow widening the number of beneficiaries.

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Central Government has undertaken a series of measures to promote country's drone industries. Liberalised Drone Rules has been notified in August last year. Drone certification scheme has been notified in January this year, making it easier to obtain type certificate by drone manufacturers.

Mission Drone Shakti has been announced for supporting drone startups and promoting Drone-as-a-Service as part of the Union Budget. Drone import policy has been notified in last month, banning import of foreign drones and freeing up import of drone components. Drone (Amendment) Rules has been also been notified in last month abolishing the requirement of a drone pilot licence.