he Ministry of Science and Technology is preparing a strategic plan to guide the development, standardisation, testing and commercialisation of drone technology and applications in Sri Lanka.A preliminary stakeholder discussion on the proposed framework was held on Sept. 2 under the leadership of Science and Technology Minister Krishantha Abeysena.The ministry said drone technology is already being widely used in industries including agriculture, highlighting the need for a coordinated national approach to its development and use.
The proposed strategy will focus on establishing national standards for drone manufacturing, assembly, safety and applications in environmental, industrial and agricultural sectors, while ensuring compliance with regulations governing the technology.
The plan will also identify suitable facilities for drone testing and quality control, research and technology development priorities, and areas with potential for commercialisation.Discussions also focused on addressing legal and policy barriers to the development and use of drone technology in coordination with relevant institutions.Representatives from the Ministry of Defence, Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka, Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka, Institution of Engineers Sri Lanka, state universities, Sri Lanka Air Force, Sri Lanka Standards Institution, Arthur C. Clarke Institute, NARA and the Survey, Agriculture and Irrigation departments attended the meeting.
