Notification of drone policy opens up benefits for industry

Panaji: The state government notified the Goa Drone Policy 2022 paving the way for the manufacturers of drones and drone pilot training schools to apply for incentives under the Goa Startup Policy 2021 and the Goa Information Technology Policy 2018.
The directorate for information technology, electronics and communication will implement the policy through the Startup and IT Promotion Cell (SITPC).
“The plicy has been adopted by the government of Goa. This is issued with the approval of the council of ministers by circulation on December 16,” said director Praveen Volvotkar.
The policy aims to encourage drone design, manufacturing, testing and maintenance facilities in Goa.
Companies that setup in Goa will be able to apply for incentives under the Centre’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for drone and drone components, which provides a 20% incentive to drone manufacturers.
“The government shall extend the benefits under the Goa Startup Policy 2021 and Goa IT Policy 2018 to drone and drone component manufacturers and service providers. Further, drones shall be the ‘key focus area for the government’ for the purpose of any additional incentives that could be accrued,” the policy states.
As the next step, the SITPC will set up teams to operationalise the drone policy and will coordinate with the director general of civil aviation and the civil aviation department.
“State nodal officers for Digital Sky platform will be appointed. They will facilitate the application process for manufacturers, testing and certifying agencies, pilot training establishments, drone registration and pilot certificate issuance,” said a department official.
Goa wants to encourage the use of drones for delivery of citizen services as well as for agriculture, forestry, horticulture, healthcare, mining and tourism. Goa wants to use the policy to attract investment and create skilled jobs in the drone ecosystem.
The state will create free-fly zones that can be used by drone enthusiasts, businesses, and educational institutions for drone testing, training and adoption.