Directorate General of Civil Aviation
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is India's regulatory body for civil aviation safety, including unmanned aircraft systems. Under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, DGCA oversees drone registration, pilot certification, operational approvals, and enforcement of safety standards for all UAS operations in Indian airspace.
Regulator Overview
Basic information about Directorate General of Civil Aviation
Directorate General of Civil Aviation
IN
DGCA India, India DGCA, Indian Civil Aviation Authority
Key Facts
- Digital Sky platform mandatory for all drone operations and approvals
- No-permission-no-takeoff (NPNT) system enforced for drones above 250g
- Green zones allow unrestricted operations within altitude limits
- Yellow zones require prior permission through Digital Sky platform
- Red zones completely prohibited for civilian drone operations
- PLI scheme providing ₹120 crores incentive for drone manufacturing
Unit Systems
Measurement units used in this regulator's jurisdiction
Weight
grams
Distance
meters
Altitude
meters
Speed
Not specified
Regulations
Key drone regulations and requirements
Drone Rules 2021
Comprehensive regulatory framework for unmanned aircraft operations in India
View SourceAircraft Rules 1937 (Part XIII)
Regulatory provisions for unmanned aircraft systems under existing aviation framework
View SourceOfficial Resources
About this regulatory authority
Country
IN
Region
National
Type
National
Updated
8/21/2025
Contact Information
How to reach Directorate General of Civil Aviation
Weight Thresholds
Drone weight categories and associated requirements
| Weight | Category | Registration |
|---|---|---|
| 0 - 249 grams (g) | License Category 1 | Required |
| 250+ grams (g) | Registration Required | Required |
| 250 - 2000 grams (g) | License Category 2 | Required |
| 2001 - 25000 grams (g) | License Category 3 | Required |
| 25001 - 150000 grams (g) | License Category 4 | Required |
| 150001+ grams (g) | License Category 5 | Required |