Archive · 29 Jul 2025
DGCA Registers Thousands of Banned Chinese Drones
The government has registered over 8,700 Chinese-made drones, even though they were banned in 2021.
These drones, like those from DJI, are still getting identification numbers from the government website, which should only be for approved drones.
This breaks the rules because these drones haven't been checked for safety.
The rules say that most drones need to be checked and approved before they can fly, but this rule isn't being followed for many Chinese drones.
This is concerning because it allows China to get information and hurts Indian drone makers who follow the rules.
DGCA has registered over 8,700 Chinese drones despite a ban imposed since 2021.
The DGCA website shows details of banned Chinese drones, including DJI models.
Illegally imported DJI drones carry DGCA-issued UINs without required Type Certification.
The Drone Rules, 2021, require UINs only for type-certified drones, with exceptions for certain models.
The proliferation of Chinese drones violates import bans and Drone Rules.
- Who
- DGCA, drone owners, and Chinese drone companies (e.g., DJI)
- What
- DGCA has registered over 8,700 banned Chinese drones.
- When
- Registration happened up to the date of article publication on July 27, 2025.
- Where
- India
- Why
- The widespread registration of banned drones is a violation of drone rules and import bans.
Government Concerns
Industry
Impact of Proliferation
Government Concerns
The widespread registration of banned Chinese drones impacts India’s security, technological advancement, and domestic industry.
Industry
No opposing view was present within the article.
- Registered Chinese Drones
- Over 8,700
- Ban Imposed
- 2021
- Website for registration
- digitalsky.dgca.gov.in
- UINs issued to
- Chinese DJI drones
- Violation of
- Drone Rules 2021
- Inter-ministerial meeting date
- July 29, 2025
- Chinese Drone import ban
- February 9,2022