Draft National Air Sports Policy

Ministry of Civil Aviation released the draft “National Air Sports Policy (NASP)” on January 3, 2021 for public feedback.

Key Facts

The draft policy is available on Ministry’s website, for which suggestions can be sent by January 31, 2022.

About National Air Sports Policy (NASP)

The NASP seeks to leverage India’s potential for air sports. It places a strong focus to ensure international best practices in safety. It has been prepared with the vision of brining India among top air sports nations by 2030. Key Features of the policy are as follows:

1. It covers sports such as aeromodelling, aerobatics, amateur-built & experimental aircraft, gliding, hang gliding & paragliding, ballooning, drones, micro lighting & paramotoring; skydiving and vintage aircraft.
2. Under it, an apex governing body called Air Sports Federation of India (ASFI) will be established.
3. Air sports associations will be accountable to ASFI with respect to regulatory oversight.
4. ASFI will represent India at FAI and other global platforms associated with the air sports.
5. Domestic design, development and manufacturing of air sports equipment will be promoted in accordance with the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
6. Inability to enforce safety standards by an air sports association will attract penal action by ASFI against such association. It will include financial penalties, suspension or dismissal.
7. All persons and entities that are providing air sports services will be required to register as members of respective air sports associations.

How this policy is significant?

• The National Air Sports Policy is significant because it seeks to bring India among top air sports nations.
• India has the potential to come among leading nations with respect to air sports.
• It has a diverse topography, large geographical expanse, and fair-weather conditions.
• Adventure sports and aviation is growing in India. Apart from direct revenue from air sports activities, there are several multiplier benefits with respect to growth of infrastructure, travel, tourism, and local employment, particularly in hilly areas.

Why government seeks to develop air sports hubs?

• Establishment of air sports hubs in India will also bring in air sports professionals and tourists from worldwide.
• Thus, Indian government seeks to promote India’s air sports sector, in order to make it safe, accessible, affordable, enjoyable and sustainable.

Month: Current Affairs - January, 2022

Category: Legal & Constitution Current Affairs