AI Mission in India and Favorable Government Policies to Drive Indian Drone Sector: A Report

A recent study by Nextgen Exhibitions; Drone International Expo organizers have revealed that the Indian artificial intelligence mission will significantly boost the development of the Indian drone sector. The survey covered over 150 companies manufacturing and providing drone services across 11 cities, including Delhi, Ghaziabad, Noida, Pune, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Chennai, Gurugram and Coimbatore. It further highlights India’s potential to become a global leader in drone technology and innovation, providing an overview of current trends, challenges and future opportunities in the Indian drone sector.

Mission India AI, an ambitious government initiative to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) across sectors, could be a major catalyst for the Indian drone industry. Integrating AI with drone technology can increase capabilities, efficiency and operational intelligence, such as autonomous navigation, real-time data processing and advanced analytics. According to Statista, the Indian drone market is expected to generate revenues of USD 27 million in 2024, at a CAGR of 5.96% during 2024-2028.

The study highlighted the government’s efforts to develop a robust domestic manufacturing ecosystem. Participating companies see the favorable policies implemented over the last few years as a positive step towards self-reliance, envisaging an increase in domestic production capacity and job creation in the sector.

The study highlighted the need for the Indian drone sector to focus on certain technological advancements to compete with global companies. These include implementing cutting-edge artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to increase drone autonomy and performance, developing and integrating high-precision sensors for greater data accuracy and reliability, innovations in battery technology to extend flight times and improve energy management systems, using 5G networks for faster data transmission and real-time communication capabilities, and ensuring robust cybersecurity measures to protect drones and their data from potential threats.

Drone International Expo 2024, scheduled for July 4-5, 2024 in New Delhi, is India’s only dedicated and longest-running trade fair dedicated to drones, anti-drones, LiDAR, geospatial and unmanned systems (land and water), artificial intelligence and other futuristic technologies . As Drone International Expo is getting bigger and better with each avatar, more and more companies from various countries are participating in this expo to showcase their innovative products and technologies. The Expo provides an all-in-one product showcase, knowledge exchange and trade platform for manufacturers, service providers and governments to collaborate and realize India’s prestigious vision as a Global Drone Hub. Along with leading Indian companies and startup brands, international manufacturers and global leaders in drones, anti-drone systems, drone components and software companies will participate in one of Asia’s largest Drone Expo. Some of the participating companies are: Optimus Unmanned Systems, Aebocode Technologies, Zen Technologies, Aakash Aerospace, Global Electronics, Passenger Drone Research Private Limited (PDRL), Vigor Power Battery Co, Nexa Flight Systems – South Africa, Sidak Defense & Aerospace Private Limited. ,Winmate inc – Taiwan ,Welkinrim Technologies Pvt ltd ,Kasstech Aerospace Pvt.Ltd , Pan India Consultant Pvt Ltd , Schnell Drone Technologies ,Raghu Vamsi Aerospace Group ,Vyom Drones Pvt Ltd , Aeronica Advance Technologies , Ms Certification Services Pvt. Ltd., Ayushi Unmanned Systems, Infinity Arsenal Pvt Ltd etc.
“The AI ​​mission in India and other favorable government policies are a game-changer for the Indian drone sector,” said Aadhar Bansal, director, Nexgen Exhibitions. He added, “These initiatives will drive innovation, enhance domestic capabilities and position India as a global hub for drone technology. By creating an environment conducive to technological innovation and domestic manufacturing, India is well on its way to becoming a leader in the global drone market. As the industry evolves, continued collaboration between government, industry stakeholders and technology innovators will be critical to achieving this vision.