Delhi to roll out drone and semiconductor policies by September

The Delhi government plans to roll out its drone and semiconductor policies by September or October, with the draft policies expected to undergo stakeholder feedback and Cabinet approval before implementation.

Officials said the drafts will be sent to chief minister Rekha Gupta for approval soon, with the government aiming to complete the process by the end of September or mid-October, the Hindustan Times reported.

“After approval, the policies will be put up for public feedback and then brought before the Cabinet. Following the Cabinet approval, the policies will be sent to the LG,” an official said.

The proposed Drone Policy is intended to promote drone use and establish a dedicated ecosystem in Delhi. It will also support drone companies, start-ups, training and related activities.

The government plans to approach the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) for land in Narela to develop a drone ecosystem.

Officials said drones are increasingly being used for surveillance, mapping, agriculture, delivery services, infrastructure inspection and emergency operations. The proposed ecosystem is expected to encourage companies and start-ups working in the sector.

The Semiconductor Policy has been structured around five key areas: semiconductor design and intellectual property development; research, development and innovation; manufacturing-enabling activities such as Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging (ATMP) and Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Testing (OSAT); development of ancillary industries; and talent development and skilling along with strengthening the start-up and industrial ecosystem.

The two policies form part of the Delhi government’s wider plans to promote technology-based industries, attract investment and generate employment.

The specific incentives and other benefits under the policies will be clear after the drafts are approved.