Shekhar Dutt, Member of the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) and former Deputy National Security Advisor during the UPA regime, has recently called for regulations for drones weighing less than 250 grams. Currently, these drones do not require any permits or approval to operate, which has raised concerns about the potential security risks they pose.
In a recent interview, Dutt highlighted the need for regulations to be put in place for these lightweight drones. He emphasized that while they may seem harmless due to their small size, they can still be used for nefarious purposes such as spying or carrying out attacks. As technology advances, it becomes easier for individuals to acquire and operate these drones, making it crucial to have proper regulations in place.
Drones have become increasingly popular in recent years, with their use ranging from recreational purposes to commercial and military applications. However, the lack of regulations for drones weighing less than 250 grams has raised eyebrows among security experts. These drones are small, affordable, and easy to operate, making them accessible to anyone without any training or knowledge.
One of the main concerns raised by Dutt is the potential use of these drones by terrorist organizations. As they do not require any permits or approval, it becomes easier for them to acquire and use these drones for their malicious activities. With the rise of global terrorism, it is crucial to have strict regulations in place to prevent any potential threats.
Moreover, these lightweight drones can also pose a threat to privacy. With their ability to fly over private properties and capture images and videos, it becomes essential to have regulations in place to protect the privacy of individuals. Dutt also highlighted the need for regulations to ensure that these drones are not used for illegal activities such as smuggling or drug trafficking.
The lack of regulations for drones weighing less than 250 grams is not only a concern for security but also for air safety. As these drones are small and can easily go unnoticed, they can pose a risk to commercial flights and other aircraft. Without proper regulations, it becomes challenging to monitor and control the use of these drones, which can lead to potential accidents.
In light of these concerns, Dutt has called for the government to take immediate action and put regulations in place for these lightweight drones. He suggested that the government should follow the example of other countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom, which have already implemented regulations for drones weighing less than 250 grams.
Dutt also stressed the need for public awareness and education about the safe and responsible use of drones. He believes that with proper regulations and awareness, these drones can be used for positive purposes such as disaster management, agriculture, and delivery services.
The Indian government has already taken some steps towards regulating the use of drones, with the Ministry of Civil Aviation releasing the Drone Regulations 1.0 in 2018. However, these regulations do not cover drones weighing less than 250 grams, which is a significant loophole that needs to be addressed.
In conclusion, Shekhar Dutt’s call for regulations for drones weighing less than 250 grams is a crucial step towards ensuring the safety and security of the nation. With the increasing popularity and accessibility of these drones, it is essential to have strict regulations in place to prevent any potential threats. The government must take immediate action and address this issue to protect the citizens and maintain air safety. It is time to act before it’s too late.
