Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai
Mumbai, Aug 14: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday announced the formation of a ministerial task force to ensure effective implementation of the state’s drone policy and address issues faced by the industry.
The task force will be chaired by Electronics, Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence Minister Ashish Shelar. It will also work towards creating awareness among entrepreneurs about government schemes and facilitating the speedy resolution of industry-related concerns.
The decision comes amid concerns raised by stakeholders over alleged conflicts of interest in the drafting of the drone policy, procedural delays and the lack of competitive incentives compared to other states.
At a meeting with representatives of drone manufacturing companies at Sahyadri Guest House in Malabar Hill, Fadnavis called for a comprehensive 'policy of policies' by bringing together provisions from various state policies covering research and development, indigenous component manufacturing, testing, patents and financial incentives.
He stressed that Maharashtra’s existing drone companies should not be overlooked while attracting fresh investments and directed officials to examine the possibility of providing financial assistance to existing firms towards testing costs until dedicated laboratories and testing facilities become operational.
The meeting was convened to obtain suggestions from industry representatives and understand their concerns. It followed a letter from BJP leader Dhananjay Mahadik urging the state government to keep the drone policy on hold and investigate an alleged conflict of interest involving consultants engaged in drafting it.
Mahadik had also expressed concern that the draft policy could adversely affect local businesses, drone training operators and women entrepreneurs.
Maharashtra had approved the Maharashtra Automated Systems Policy 2026 on June 16. The five-year policy targets investments of Rs 25,000 crore and more than one lakh jobs, with an aim to establish the state as a major national hub for drone manufacturing, robotics and autonomous mobility.
Fadnavis also directed officials to expedite the development of the proposed drone city in the industrial area of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.
He suggested considering a special incentive policy for the next two to three years to facilitate land allotment through the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) for projects related to the drone industry.
The chief minister assured industry representatives that the government would take steps to provide access to testing ranges, financial assistance for patent-related expenses and integrated benefits under various Central and state government schemes.
The government’s latest move is aimed at strengthening Maharashtra’s drone ecosystem, supporting existing businesses and creating an environment conducive to investment, innovation and employment in the rapidly expanding sector.