Drone Policy 2023 (Uttarakhand Drone Promotion and Usage Policy) provides a framework to drive innovation and use of drone technology across the state. Information Technology Development Agency (ITDA) runs the policy under Department of Information Technology, Government of Uttarakhand, and it continues to guide drone-based services and manufacturing in the state as of August 2026.
The scheme helps manufacturers, startups, students, and businesses in Uttarakhand by offering incentives and strategic collaborations to modernize governance and service delivery through advanced drone systems. Under this policy, the state has planned investment of around ₹500 crore in drone manufacturing and another ₹500 crore in drone-based services.
Drone Policy 2023 - Information Technology Development Agency - Introduction
Drone Policy 2023 works as a catalyst for bringing drone technology into everyday governance and service delivery. By encouraging a strong partnership between industry leaders, academic institutions, and the government, this scheme speeds up the growth of the drone ecosystem in the state.
Uttarakhand was among the first states to set up a Drone Application and Research Centre (DARC), a joint effort of ITDA and National Technical Research Organization (NTRO). The policy also plans a State Drone Coordination Cell (SDCC) under ITDA to coordinate drone promotion and use across departments. This helps the hilly state use drones where traditional delivery and service methods are difficult.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Drone Policy 2023 - Information Technology Development Agency |
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Infra |
| Beneficiary State | Uttarakhand |
| Category | Science, IT and Communications |
| Target Beneficiaries | Individual, University/Institution, Self Help Groups, Business Entity |
| Benefit Type | In Kind |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Department | Department of Information Technology |
| Implementing Agency | Information Technology Development Agency |
| Official Website | itda.uk.gov.in |
Benefits
Drone Policy 2023 introduces several measures to reward talent and build local infrastructure. The main benefits under the policy are given below.
- Improves service delivery and governance through drone use in difficult hilly terrains where roads and delivery networks are hard to reach.
- Encourages fast research and development in drone technology, helping new ideas grow into working products.
- Strengthens the local Drone System Design and Manufacturing (DSDM) and Drone-Based Services (DES) landscape in the state.
- Builds synergy between industry experts, administrators, and academia so all sides work together on drone projects.
Apart from these, the policy gives targeted support to manufacturers, investors, local startups, and youth. It runs a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to expand drone usage, grants appreciation and rewards for good work in manufacturing or services, and creates dedicated Drone Centers of Excellence to mentor new talent.
Eligibility
This scheme is open to a wide range of contributors within the drone ecosystem. If you are a drone service provider, manufacturer, investor, or an innovative startup, you can look into these benefits.
Students and faculty from universities, ITIs, and polytechnic colleges based in Uttarakhand, along with various government institutions, are also eligible to apply for support under this policy. Eligible people can get benefits through the official process set by ITDA.
Application Process
You should submit your application directly through ITDA. Since this agency works under the State Information Technology Department, they manage the verification and selection process.
STEP 1 - Visit the official ITDA website at itda.uk.gov.in and go to the policy and guidelines section to read the latest rules.
STEP 2 - Prepare your project proposal, business registration details, and any educational credentials that the department asks for.
STEP 3 - Contact the local ITDA office to discuss your project and get guidance on the current application timelines and required documents.
Documents
To process your application easily, you should keep all required paperwork ready as per the formal rules of ITDA. Keep updated copies of your business registration, project proposals, or educational credentials ready during the application window.
References
View Official Drone Policy Guidelines PDF
FAQ's
Who can benefit under this policy?
You can benefit if you are a drone manufacturer, startup founder, service provider, investor, or a student from a recognized university, ITI, or polytechnic college located in Uttarakhand.
What are the key focus areas of Drone Policy 2023?
This scheme focuses on drone-led innovation, expanding drone-based services, strengthening the local design and manufacturing ecosystem, and encouraging successful public-private partnerships.
What kind of support is available for drone startups under this policy?
As a startup, you may qualify for financial incentives, mentorship opportunities, access to incubation programs, and chances to collaborate with leading industry and academic partners.
How can applicants apply for benefits under the policy?
You should apply through the ITDA office under the State IT Department. Reach out to them directly to learn about the specific steps you must take to start your application.
How does the policy promote innovation in drone technology?
The policy promotes innovation by providing incentives and official appreciation to startups, companies, and individuals who show good progress in drone manufacturing or related service sectors.