New Delhi: In a significant development for India’s drone industry, the Quality Council of India (QCI) has provisionally approved the National Test House (NTH), Northern Region, Ghaziabad, as a Certification Body for type certification of drones. This approval is part of the Certification Scheme for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and aligns with the Government of India’s vision under the Drone Rules 2021, which aims to promote a robust and competitive drone ecosystem.
As part of its new responsibilities, NTH will conduct a Stage-2 (onsite) assessment at Vimaana Aerospace Technologies, Noida, from 11th to 12th September 2024. The audit will focus on evaluating the company’s D1 application for Krishiraj 1.0, an agricultural drone specifically designed to meet the requirements of the farming sector. This evaluation is a crucial step for securing type certification, a mandatory requirement for drones operating in India as per the Drone Rules 2021. NTH’s role ensures that drones manufactured in India meet the highest safety, quality, and performance standards.
NTH, Ghaziabad, is now tasked with assessing various drone models to ensure they comply with both national and international standards. This initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to position India as a global leader in drone technology, supporting critical sectors like agriculture, healthcare, logistics, and infrastructure with safe and certified drone solutions.
One of the key highlights of NTH’s services is its highly competitive fee of ₹1.5 lakh for drone certification, the lowest in the industry, demonstrating its commitment to fostering innovation and growth in India’s drone sector. Additionally, NTH has outpaced its peers in achieving this certification capability, showcasing its efficiency and expertise in drone technology.
Established in 1912, National Test House has long supported India’s industrial growth through its testing, calibration, and quality evaluation services. Now, with its added role in drone certification, NTH is contributing to the “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives by ensuring that Indian-made drone technologies adhere to global standards.
The upcoming onsite assessment at Vimaana Aerospace Technologies marks NTH’s dedication to rigorous evaluation and adherence to safety protocols, paving the way for cutting-edge drone technologies that align with the needs of the Indian economy.
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