Indian security forces widely deploy Chinese DJI drones, contravening government import restrictions. A detailed investigation reveals security agencies rely on grey-market imports and alleged white-labelling to keep these units operational. This supply chain now involves emergency procurement and alleged customs evasion.
How We Got Here
Government rules in 2020 barred neighbouring countries from procurement, with a February 2022 directive prohibiting outright drone imports. Despite special authorisation requirements for security forces, agencies like the Army and CRPF have consistently sourced DJI drones via unofficial channels.
The Numbers
- DJI drones were the primary choice for anti-Maoist operations in Chhattisgarh over the last 5-6 years.
- The workaround supply chain uses emergency procurement, grey-market imports from Southeast Asia/UAE, and customs seizures.
- Army, CRPF, BSF, ITBP, and Chhattisgarh Police use DJI models across India, from J&K to the Northeast.
- Indian drone maker Skylark faces a DGCA probe for allegedly white-labelling Chinese technology as local.
What Happens Next
🇮🇳 Why This Matters for India
For Indian drone startups in Bangalore and Pune, this continued reliance on foreign tech, even via grey channels, undermines domestic market development and defence indigenisation efforts.
The Take
The policy-reality gap here isn't surprising; it highlights the operational blind spot of simply banning without offering robust, battle-tested alternatives. Until Indian manufacturers build a DJI-level product that's as affordable and easily replaceable, security forces will find a way to get what works.
Source:
The Ken ↗