DJI Drones in India: What You Need to Know Before You Fly
DJI drones have become a daily sight at weddings, real‑estate shoots, and hobbyist gatherings across India. Their smooth footage and easy controls draw crowds, but the excitement stops if you ignore the rules. This guide pulls the most asked‑about topics into one place so you can get in the air without a ticket to court.
Legal basics and registration
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) rolled out the Drone Rules in 2021, and they still apply today. Any drone that weighs more than 250 grams needs a Unique Identification Number (UIN) and an Unmanned Aircraft Operator Permit (UAOP) if you plan to use it for commercial work. For most DJI hobby models under 250 g, you only need to register on the Digital Sky Platform and link your device’s serial number.
Registration is free, but you must provide a valid ID, upload a selfie with your drone, and wait for a confirmation email. Once approved, you’ll get a digital UIN that you should keep handy while flying. Remember to always fly below 120 meters, stay away from airports, and keep the drone within visual line of sight – the DGCA watches those limits closely.
Popular DJI models and their Indian restrictions
The DJI Mini 2 is the poster child for Indian hobbyists. It weighs just 249 g, so it skips the UAOP, but you still need to register it. The Mini 2 can fly up to 4 km from the operator, yet the DGCA caps that distance at 5 km for all drones, so you’re safe there. Do not attempt night flights unless you have special permission – the rule applies to every DJI model, from Mavic Air 2 to the Phantom series.
If you own a heavier DJI like the Mavic 3 (around 900 g), you’ll need a UAOP for any paid work. The process involves uploading an insurance certificate, a proof of training, and a flight plan for each commercial mission. Many freelancers skip this step and end up with fines, so treat it like a license to earn money.
Another common question is about importing DJI drones. Indian customs may ask for a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) for newer models, especially those with advanced camera sensors. The easiest route is to buy from an authorized Indian dealer; they handle the paperwork and guarantee that the device complies with local frequency bands.
Beyond the law, good habits keep you out of trouble. Always do a quick pre‑flight check: battery levels, firmware updates, and a clear view of the sky. Use the DJI Fly app’s “Geofence” feature – it warns you when you approach restricted zones like airports or government buildings.
Finally, respect privacy. Shooting people without consent can land you in civil court, even if you’re following all DGCA rules. A simple “May I take a quick shot?” goes a long way and avoids complaints.
This page gathers all the DJI‑related posts on our site, from the legality of the Mini 2 to tips for safe flying in busy Indian cities. Bookmark it, come back when you buy a new drone, and stay updated as regulations evolve. Happy flying, and keep those shots steady!