The draft Drones Rules, 2021, replacing the regulations was issued in March this year, Provision on R&D:
26. Drone operations for research and development. – The following persons shall not require a certificate of airworthiness, unique identification number, prior permission and remote pilot licence for operating drones for research and development purposes –
(a) Research and development entities under the administrative control of, or recognised by the Central Government, State Governments or Union Territory Administrations;
(b) Educational institutions under the administrative control of, or recognised by the Central Government, State Governments or Union Territory Administrations;
(c) Startups recognised by Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade; and
(d) Any drone manufacturer having a Goods and Service Tax Identification Number:
Also read -World of Drones.
