Drones and UAVs — Current Affairs 2026

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Recent developments and news linked to Drones and UAVs.

India's 'Drone Shakti' Initiative Boosts Startup Ecosystem and Agricultural Adoption

February 2024

The 'Drone Shakti' initiative, announced in the Union Budget, aims to promote drone startups and the use of drones in various sectors, particularly agriculture. This initiative provides a significant boost to the domestic drone manufacturing and services ecosystem, aligning with the 'Make in India' vision. From a UPSC angle, this highlights the government's commitment to leveraging technology for economic growth and rural development, making it relevant for GS-III (Economy, Science & Technology) and GS-II (Governance, welfare schemes).

UPSC Angle: Government initiatives for technological adoption, startup ecosystem support, agricultural modernization, and 'Make in India' success stories.

Indian Army Integrates Advanced Indigenous Drones for Border Surveillance and Logistics

September 2024

The Indian Army has significantly ramped up the induction of indigenously developed drones, including surveillance UAVs and logistics drones, for deployment along its northern and western borders. This move underscores India's push for self-reliance in defense technology and enhances its capabilities for real-time intelligence gathering, reconnaissance, and critical supply delivery in challenging terrains. This is a direct application of the 'Make in India' and 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives in the defense sector.

UPSC Angle: Defense modernization, border security challenges, indigenous defense manufacturing, military applications of drone technology, and strategic autonomy.