MUMBAI: Weeks after state govt unveiled its automated systems policy to regulate the use, research and manufacturing of drones, robotics and autonomous vehicles, leading drone makers have criticised the policy, warning the state’s drone making industry is at risk of moving out. They cited failure to address key requirements.In a confidential letter to IT minister Ashish Shelar, six leading drone makers said the state could lose nearly Rs 2 lakh crore in fresh investment. They said IT secretary Virendra Singh was unavailable despite repeated attempts, and they could interact only with consultants. The letter is signed by CEOs of the firms.
State may lose Rs 2 lakh crore
Fix drone policy before it is too late, industry tells govt
The CEOs of Airbots Aerospace, Drone Tech Solution and Cerebrospark Innovation, as well as the director (operations) of Sagar Defence have urged state IT minister Ashish Shelar to urgently review the Maharashtra Unmanned Systems Policy-2026 and incorporate the industry’s recommendations.Their letter alleges a lack of transparency and communication in the policy-making process. Manufacturers say they were able to interact only with consultants engaged by the IT department. They also claimed the IT department had been relegated to a secondary role in the policy’s formulation. IT secretary Virendra Singh, a 2006-batch IAS officer, did not respond to TOI’s queries.Consultants are routinely engaged by govt departments to provide expertise on policy, e-governance and infrastructure projects.
Maha’s automated systems policy
“We are very disappointedthat the Maharashtra Unmanned Systems Policy does not address the key suggestions and demands put forward by drone manufacturing companies. These were submitted in writing during industry interactions with Singh. Statessuch as Goa, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh offer far better incentives and support,” the representation states.It adds: “The Indian defence, private sector and export markets are expected to procure drones worth over Rs 4 lakh crore over the next decade, requiring nearly Rs 2 lakh crore in fresh investment. Due to the lack of adequate support and incentives, Maharashtra stands to lose out on this opportunity.”Officials said representatives of the drone industry met Shelar on Sunday and urged him to immediately review the policy. The minister assured them that their concerns would be examined. Shelar, however, was unavailable for comment.
