Mumbai, March 26: India’s commercial drone industry is advancing rapidly. A recent report indicates that by the fiscal year 2026, the market size of this sector will reach $1.88 billion (approximately ₹17,000 crores). It is projected that between fiscal years 2025 and 2029, this market will grow at an annual rate of about 17.98%.
According to research firm B2K Analytics, the United States currently leads the global commercial drone industry, followed by China, while India ranks seventh.
The report highlights that drone technology is becoming a significant means of reducing costs in agriculture. Specifically, using drones for agrochemical spraying can lower costs by nearly 80%.
An analysis of small and medium drones, priced between ₹640,000 and ₹710,000, shows that their maximum operational lifespan is estimated at three years. In comparison, annual expenses for manual labor are approximately ₹170,000. Although the initial cost of drones is higher, their efficiency is significantly greater.
Drones can cover 6 to 6.6 acres of land in the same time that workers take to cover just one acre. The report indicates that when considering both efficiency and cost, drones prove to be over 78% more economical than manual labor.
Currently, 122 drone models have received type certification from the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) in India. This certification confirms that the drones meet safety, flight capability, and performance standards.
Approximately 70% of these drones are used for agricultural tasks, particularly spraying, while 24% are utilized for surveillance and mapping. This clearly indicates that the primary application of drones in India is in agriculture.
Government policies have also bolstered this sector. A ban on the import of fully assembled drones and the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme have strengthened local manufacturing and research.
Under the ‘Namo Drone Didi’ initiative, women’s self-help groups are being connected with drone technology to enhance their participation in agricultural services.
The Ministry of Agriculture is providing subsidies for drone purchases, while the Ministries of Mining and Road Transport are employing drones for surveillance. The Ministry of Defence is also enhancing its capabilities through drone acquisitions.
Notably, around 90% of India’s territory falls within ‘green zones’, where prior permission is not required to operate drones.
The report states that after states like Punjab, Haryana, and Andhra Pradesh, the use of drones in agriculture is expected to grow rapidly in other states, paving the way for a significant market in this sector.
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