National Test House has signed a government to government collaboration with the Standardization Testing and Quality Certification Directorate Electronics Regional Test Laboratory North to enable electromagnetic interference (EMI) and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing for drones and their subsystems, bolstering India’s drone certification framework. The initiative supports Make in India, Atmanirbhar Bharat and Vision 2047 by enhancing domestic capabilities for certified drone technologies. It will address regulatory requirements under the Drone Rules 2021 and the Certification Scheme for Unmanned Aircraft Systems 2022.

Under the memorandum of understanding signed on 2 February 2026, immunity and EMC testing will be carried out at the regional test laboratory in accordance with IEC 61000 and IS 14700 standards, while National Test House will conduct remaining tests at its own premises. Test reports from the joint testing will be integrated into the Type Certification process to provide manufacturers with a transparent, government backed certification pathway. The arrangement is designed to avoid duplication of high cost facilities and to promote optimal utilisation of existing national laboratories.

The collaboration is expected to benefit startups and micro, small and medium enterprises by offering accessible and affordable testing at markedly lower cost than private facilities and by reducing the time and expense associated with certification. Compliance with international benchmarks including IEC and ISO and with relevant military and aerospace standards will improve global acceptance of Indian certified drones. The partnership will strengthen regulatory capacity and help accelerate the adoption of compliant unmanned aircraft systems across sectors.

National Test House is approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation and the Quality Council of India as a certification body and authorised testing entity under the relevant certification scheme and will play a central role in ensuring safety and regulatory compliance. Established in 1912 and operating under the Department of Consumer Affairs, National Test House maintains a nationwide network of accredited laboratories offering testing, inspection and certification services. The collaboration with the regional test laboratory marks a step towards a robust, indigenous drone certification ecosystem for the nation.