How to start a drone photography business in India?

Compliance First: The DGCA & Commercial Niche Strategy 🚁📸 In India, a drone business is highly regulated. Compliance is your foundation. 1. Legal Requirements (Mandatory): * Drone Purchase: Buy a drone that is listed as NTNF (No Permission – No Takeoff) compliant and register it on the Digital Sky Platform run by the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation). * Pilot License: Obtain the necessary Drone Pilot Certificate from a DGCA-approved training organization for the specific category of drone you operate (e.g., Small, Medium, Large). * Insurance: Get commercial liability insurance for your drone. 2. Target Niche: Focus on high-value, specific commercial services: * Real Estate & Construction: Progress monitoring for construction sites, aerial mapping for large land parcels, and luxury property photography. * Events (Weddings & Large Gatherings): Premium aerial coverage for major life events and festivals (ensure local police permission is obtained for the flight location). * Industrial Inspection: Wind turbine, solar panel, and tower inspection (requires specialized training, but is highly lucrative). 3. Pricing: Do not charge hourly. Charge a fixed project fee that covers your time, editing, legal compliance/permission costs, and the risk involved. Check the DGCA Digital Sky website for up-to-date guidelines on No-Fly Zones and mandatory permissions.