New Delhi, August 26: The Centre on Thursday announced New Drone Policy. Under Drone Rules 2021, no security clearance is required before registration or licence issuance.

Fees for permissions have been reduced to nominal levels in the new policy. Similarly, maximum penalty has been reduced to Rs 1 lakh, not applicable to penalties in respect of violation of other laws.

Unmanned Aircraft Systems Promotion Council to be set up to facilitate a business-friendly regulatory regime. Import of drones will be regulated by DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade). Drone corridors will be developed for cargo deliveries, under Drone Rules 2021, reported news agency ANI.

Coverage of drones under Drone Rules 2021 has been increased from 300 kg to 500 kg to include heavy payload-carrying drones and drone taxis. No security clearance required before any registration or licence issuance.