This MS Dhoni-Backed Drone Company Becomes The First In History To Get DGCA Approvals For Type Certification And Pilot Training

CHENNAI: The Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has given type certification to Garuda Aerospace, a drone startup based in Chennai, for their Kisan drones.

DGCA type certification is based on the quality check of the drones and is given after the unmanned aerial vehicles have been put through a series of tough tests. In August 2021, the Indian government made the type certification part of the Drone Rules.

Agnishwar Jayaprakash, founder and CEO of Garuda Aerospace, said, Garuda Aerospace has made history by becoming India's first drone start-up to receive both type certification and RTPO approvals by DGCA for their indigenously designed Kisan Drones.

He also said, "The certification will help Garuda Aerospace create new jobs and advanced pilot training for rural youth."

Garuda Kisan Drone can now get a 10 lakh loan from the Agri Infrastructure Fund at 5% interest and a 50%-100% subsidy from the Government of India. This is because the GA-AG model has been given a type certificate. The price of the drones is 4.5 lakh. The Kisan drones, which are made in India, were made specifically for agricultural uses, like reducing crop loss, monitoring crop health, measuring crop yield, and reducing crop loss. They have the latest manufacturing capabilities and strong technology backgrounds.

Garuda Aerospace has just started its $30 million Series A round, which is worth $250 million. Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who used to be the captain of the Indian cricket team, has invested in the company and is also its brand ambassador.