Haryana’s Additional Chief Secretary for the Home Department, Sumita Misra, announced a statewide ban on the use of drones or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) until May 25. This move is part of the state’s precautionary measures to maintain heightened security in light of growing concerns over potential threats.
In a letter addressed to deputy commissioners, police commissioners, and superintendents of police across Haryana, Misra emphasized the need for vigilance and stringent surveillance to safeguard sensitive areas. The ban excludes drones used by the Indian Armed Forces, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), Haryana Police, NDRF, and the State Disaster Response Force.
Misra urged all law enforcement agencies and local authorities to closely monitor drone activity, with immediate action to be taken if any drone or UAV is spotted or detected. In cases of suspicious drones, authorities are instructed to alert the nearest police station or official promptly, with bomb disposal teams involved if necessary.
The move comes at a time when Haryana is on high alert due to tensions between India and Pakistan. Following a series of cross-border drone and missile strikes that nearly led to war, India and Pakistan reached a ceasefire agreement on May 10. Despite the truce, security concerns remain heightened, prompting the implementation of this temporary drone ban.
In her directive, Misra also called for increased public vigilance, urging citizens to report any flying objects or drones to local police. To ensure public cooperation, the government will run awareness campaigns through print and electronic media.
Misra clarified that any government department requiring drone usage for official surveys during this period must seek prior approval from the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police. She further directed private individuals and companies involved in drone-related activities to comply with the ban and notify authorities accordingly.
Along with the drone ban, Misra introduced measures to bolster Haryana’s civil defense capabilities. The government has rolled out Civil Defence volunteer registration camps at the district and sub-division levels. The initiative is already operational in 10 districts and will expand to all districts in the coming weeks. These volunteers will be equipped with standard jackets and uniforms, ensuring they are identifiable during emergency situations.
Additionally, Haryana’s disaster response strategy will undergo updates, including a focus on vulnerability mapping for critical public infrastructure such as government buildings, schools, hospitals, and utilities. Misra stressed that no high-risk areas will be left unmapped.
For the first time, livestock evacuation will be included in the disaster drills, reflecting the government’s comprehensive approach to disaster preparedness. Civil Defence volunteers will also receive mandatory training based on national guidelines, with a platoon of 30 trained Home Guard volunteers placed on standby at the district level to respond to emergencies.
In closing, Misra reaffirmed Haryana’s commitment to ensuring the state is well-equipped to handle any crisis, saying, “We are strengthening our civil defense force to maintain the safety and security of our people during this sensitive period.”
Sources By Agencies