The Civil Aviation Ministry has finalised the National Drone Policy, which will be effective from December 1.

Pragdish Santosh, founder of drone service provider Aero360, said the industry sees this policy as a welcome move because all these days we did not know when it would come through.

"As of now, there are no provisions to get a unique identification number (UID) or operator permit but now since the policy has come, closer to December 1, it will be available on the DGCA website for companies like us or users who can go and then get the UID number or the permit to operate the drone across the industry," Santosh told CNBC-TV18 on Tuesday.

With regards to the company, he said, “We focus on companies in infrastructure, agriculture, mining and energy utility,”adding that they use the drones for aerial surveying, monitoring, maintenance of projects etc.

"In some places it was difficult to get permission and operate drones but now with the regulation the time of getting permission may reduce," said Santosh.

According to him, drones can be used for agriculture purposes, medical emergencies, disaster relief etc. "However, carrying payloads has not been addressed in this regulation but hope it will come in the future and benefit all," said Santosh.

A quick look at the National Drone Policy

- Effective Dec 1, 2018

All civilian drone operations will be restricted only during day time

Flying will be restricted within visual line of sight

Flying Drone restricted within 450 metres

Drones used in agriculture, mining, disaster

Delivery of Payload including food items not allowed

Drones would be registered and issued unique identification number

No drones near airports, military installations, international borders etc

Drones can't be used for spraying pesticides unless specifically cleared