Sri Lanka's Ministry of Science and Technology has begun developing a national strategic framework for the development and commercialisation of drone technology.
The proposed strategy is intended to create a coordinated approach covering the development, standardisation, testing, safe use and commercialisation of drones and related technologies.
A preliminary stakeholder discussion on the proposed framework was held on September 2 under the leadership of Science and Technology Minister Krishantha Abeysena.
Manufacturing, testing and safety
The planned framework is expected to examine national standards covering:
- drone manufacturing;
- drone assembly;
- safety requirements;
- testing and quality control;
- environmental applications;
- agricultural applications;
- industrial applications;
- research and technology development; and
- commercialisation opportunities.
The Ministry says drones are already being used in areas including agriculture, increasing the need for a coordinated national approach.
Multiple agencies involved
Institutions involved in the initial process include representatives from:
- Ministry of Defence;
- Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka;
- Telecommunications Regulatory Commission;
- Sri Lanka Air Force;
- Sri Lanka Standards Institution;
- universities;
- Arthur C. Clarke Institute;
- NARA;
- engineering bodies; and
- agriculture, irrigation and surveying agencies.
Legal and policy barriers affecting drone development and use are also being examined.
Strategy is still under development
Sri Lanka has not yet enacted a new national drone law or completed this strategic framework.
The current development is the beginning of the policy-development process.
Specific standards, regulatory changes or commercial programmes should be reported as final only after the relevant authorities formally approve and publish them.