Fadnavis Announces Task Force Led by Ashish Shelar to Implement Drone Policy
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on Thursday that the Maharashtra government will set up a ministerial task force to ensure effective implementation of the state’s drone policy. Speaking at a meeting held at Sahyadri Guest House in Mumbai, Fadnavis stated that the new task force will be headed by Electronics, Information Technology, and Artificial Intelligence Minister Ashish Shelar.
The task force has been formed to create greater awareness about government schemes among entrepreneurs and resolve industry-related issues on a priority basis. During the meeting, which was convened to discuss suggestions and expectations from entrepreneurs and companies operating in the drone sector, Fadnavis highlighted that Maharashtra needs to establish a comprehensive "policy of policies" for the drone industry.
Fadnavis explained that this framework should integrate existing provisions related to research and development, indigenous component manufacturing, testing, patents, and financial incentives available across various government policies. He stated that Maharashtra’s drone policy is stronger than those of other states, stressing the need to make its benefits directly accessible to entrepreneurs.
As part of the initiatives, Fadnavis directed officials to accelerate the development of a ‘Drone City’ in the Industrial City area of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. He instructed officials to place special emphasis on research and development alongside the indigenous manufacturing of drone components, advocating for the consolidation of financial provisions so entrepreneurs can access them through a single framework.
To support current operations, the Chief Minister directed officials to examine financial assistance for testing expenses incurred by existing institutions until adequate state laboratories and testing facilities are fully established. He emphasized strengthening the existing drone ecosystem over focusing solely on attracting new companies.
Additionally, the state government will consider a special incentive policy for the next two to three years to assist drone companies in acquiring land through the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC). Further steps will include establishing testing ranges, offering assistance toward patent costs, and helping entrepreneurs collectively leverage various Central and state government schemes.
