India, March 23 -- Citing security reasons, the Pune district collector's office has made prior police permission mandatory for commercial drone operations. The directive states that drones have been used by terrorist organisations for surveillance of religious sites, dams, and central institutions. Without police approval, any drone activity related to event management or commercial purposes will be deemed illegal.

The order highlights rising concerns over nighttime drone flights in Daund, Baramati, and Shirur talukas, which prompted multiple complaints from residents to the district police and administration. In light of these concerns, individuals, event management firms, and commercial shoot organisers must submit an application deta...