India Bans Import of Drones

With the objective to boost the ‘Make in India’ scheme, the government has banned import of foreign manufactured drones with an exception of those required for the defence, security and R&D purposes. It is pertinent to note that, import of drone components shall be permitted as before, without the requirement of prior approvals.

As per the Rules, import of drones by government entities, educational institutions recognised by central or state government, government recognised R&D entities and drone manufacturers for R&D purpose shall be allowed in CBU, SKD or CKD form. The said exception is subjected to import authorisation issued by DGFT in consultation with concerned line ministries.

Additionally, import of drones for defence and security purposes shall be allowed in CBU, SKD or CKD form that shall be subject to further import authorisation issued by DGFT in consultation with the concerned line ministries.

The notification which was released on 9^th February 2022 is scheduled to be implemented with immediate effect.