With 32 New Drones, Delhi Police Ushers in a New Era of Smart Policing in India
Delhi Police plans to deploy 32 advanced surveillance drones, each valued at about ₹30 lakh, as part of a significant expansion of its surveillance and crisis management capabilities. Senior officials confirmed on Monday that the 15 police districts and specialized units in the Capital, including the traffic department, will receive these cutting-edge UAVs.
This is a big step toward a bigger goal of eventually acquiring more than 100 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The drones will be used to oversee public gatherings and protests, keep an eye on sensitive areas, and offer immediate assistance in times of need. A senior officer who asked to remain anonymous stated, “This is just the beginning. The drones will be a key tool in both routine policing and high-risk situations“.
Every UAV is equipped with AI-based tracking systems that can lock onto and follow moving targets, high-definition zoom cameras, and night vision capabilities. Because of this, they are particularly useful in crowded urban settings where traditional surveillance frequently fails.
To guarantee safe and efficient handling, officials stated that internal force drone operators will receive specialized training. “The supplier will also train designated officers in drone operation and safety. These drones will only be effective if handled professionally” the officer continued.
Drones have been used by Delhi Police in the 2020–21 farmers’ protests, the COVID-19 lockdown, and the 2020 northeast Delhi riots since their initial deployment in 2014 during the Trilokpuri unrest. Drones were especially helpful in areas that were difficult to navigate.
But increased drone use also increases the possibility of rogue UAVs. Growing concerns about unapproved drone activity in urban airspace were brought to light by a second senior officer. “Urban airspace now sees significantly more drone activity, which raises the threat of rogue drones,” the officer stated.
These devices, referred to as counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS), track and identify suspicious drones using EO/IR technology, radar, and RF sensors. Signal jamming, GPS spoofing, and physical strategies like drone nets or energy-based weapons are examples of neutralization techniques.
Officials emphasize the significance of striking a balance between the operational advantages of drones and safeguards for public areas and critical infrastructure, such as airports, power plants, and government buildings, as drones become more widely available. The officer came to the conclusion that “Law enforcement agencies must therefore balance expansion in drone use with a robust strategy to defend against misuse”.
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.
