NATIONAL: The Ministry of Civil Aviation has said that citizens can now become drone pilots with any government-issued identity and address proof.

The Ministry has notified the new Drone (Amendment) Rules 2023 for drone pilots. After the amendment, it has now been made clear that a government-issued proof of identity and a government-issued proof of address like Voter ID, Ration Card, or Driving License can now be accepted to apply for a Remote Pilot Certificate if the drone pilot does not have a passport.

Exercising the power bestowed upon it by section 5, sub-section 2 of section 10, and sections 10A, 10B, and 12A of the Aircraft Act, 1934 (22 of 1934), the Ministry of Civil Aviation has notified the new Drone (Amendment) Rules 2023 for drone pilots, the statement said.

The Ministry added that the prerequisite of having a passport was becoming a hurdle for aspiring drone pilots and this effort is to further liberalize, promote, and facilitate drone operations across the country and make India a global drone hub by 2030.

The rule is effective from the 27th of last month.