Drone News

DGCA Grants Drone Type Certifications Recommended by NTH

Posted by

Pradipta V Mukherjee

September 10, 2025

On September 10, 2025

A major step toward bolstering India’s domestic drone ecosystem under the Drone Rules 2021 will be taken on September 10 when Union Minister Pralhad Joshi presents drone type certifications approved by the DGCA in New Delhi. The National Test House (NTH) in Ghaziabad recommended the certifications, which demonstrate the government’s dedication to guaranteeing drone technology that is safe, dependable, and competitive worldwide.

More than 50 applications from Indian drone manufacturers have already been examined by the NTH, which has been temporarily approved by the Quality Council of India as a Certification Body for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Two drone models passed rigorous testing and are now officially certified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). This accomplishment highlights NTH’s contribution to raising global standards for drone performance, safety, and quality that are manufactured in India.

NTH has set its certification fee at ₹4.2 lakh, the lowest in the industry, to promote greater involvement in the drone sector. It is anticipated that the low price will lower barriers to entry for new businesses and small producers, allowing them to confidently launch certified drone models. The program promotes innovation and creates chances for global competitiveness, closely aligning with national priorities like “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat.”

In agriculture, where unmanned aerial vehicles are being used more and more for soil analysis, precision farming, pesticide spraying, and crop health monitoring, affordable certification is also expected to hasten the adoption of drones. Farmers and agri-tech entrepreneurs will have access to safer and more dependable technologies with standardized certifications, promoting increased yields, lower input costs, and enhanced sustainability in rural regions.

With experience in testing, calibration, and quality assurance for the engineering, electrical, textile, and food industries, the National Test House was established in 1912 and has long been a pillar of India’s industrial development. Its strategic expansion of its role in promoting technological innovation is reflected in its entry into drone certification. This new endeavor, which marks the end of its 114-year history, strengthens its standing as a reliable government-supported organization that propels technological and industrial advancement.

Pradipta V Mukherjee

CEO, Mavdrones

Pradipta V Mukherjee is the visionary CEO of Mavdrones & Drone Pathshala, driving innovation and growth in the drone industry. With a passion for advanced technology, he leads the company's strategic direction, ensuring Mavdrones stays at the forefront of drone solutions. Under his leadership, Mavdrones has achieved remarkable success, including winning the 'Best Innovation and Technology in Drone Industry' award from ASSOCHAM. Pradipta is committed to revolutionizing the industry through advanced UAV technology, fostering a culture of excellence and forward-thinking within the organization.