Drone Cameras & WPC ETA Legal Liabilities Every Operator Must Know

1. Drone Cameras & WPC ETA: Legal Liabilities Every Operator Must Know WPC ETA Overview The Wireless Planning and Coordination (WPC) Wing of the Indian Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is responsible for issuing the prerequisite certification known as WPC ETA (Equipment Type Approval). It certifies that wireless and RF- enabled devices meet the power output and radio frequency (RF) standards set by India for use in unlicensed frequency bands such as 5.8 GHz and 2.4 GHz (Wi-Fi/Bluetooth). What is WPC? In India, the national radio regulatory body in charge of licensing, spectrum management, frequency distribution, and wireless communications monitoring is called the Wireless Planning and Coordination Wing (WPC). What is ETA? Equipment Type Approval (ETA) is the formal approval granted by WPC to wireless devices that use de-licensed frequency bands, ensuring that the RF module: ✔ Operates within Indian frequency and emission limits ✔ Does not interfere with licensed radio services ✔ Complies with Indian wireless regulations Why Drones Require Equipment Type Approval (ETA) from WPC The majority of drones operate in unlicensed frequency ranges like 2.4 GHz or 5.8 GHz using radio frequency modules (RF modules) for control, telemetry, or video transmission. Every RF-enabled gadget must have an ETA certificate following Indian law to guarantee: Compliance with power and frequency norms Avoidance of harmful interference with licensed spectrum users National security and legal compliance Without a WPC certificate, your drone is essentially illegal in India. Legal Liabilities for Non-Compliance Operating or importing drones with RF modules without WPC ETA certification can expose you to: Confiscation of Equipment: Customs authorities can seize drones without a valid ETA certificate at ports of entry. Fines and Penalties: Heavy financial penalties under the Indian Telegraph Act and Wireless Telegraphy Act. Legal Action: Criminal prosecution for repeated or deliberate violations. Insurance Issues: Insurance claims for drone accidents may be rejected if your equipment was operated illegally. How to Get Equipment Type Approval WPC for Drone Cameras Conduct RF TestingObtain an RF (radio frequency) test report from an accredited laboratory certifying that your drone’s RF module operates within India’s de-licensed frequency limits. Prepare Documents for WPC ETA Certificate’ll need:

2. ✔ RF test report ✔ Drone’s user manual and datasheet ✔ High-quality images of the drone and its labeling ✔ Import Export Code (IEC) for importers ✔ Authorization letter if applying through a consultant Apply Online on Saral Sanchar Visit the official WPC application portal —Saral Sanchar (saralsanchar.gov.in) — and submit your ETA application along with required documents and fees. Receive WPC ETA Certificate Once verified, WPC will issue the ETA certificate, which legally allows you to import, sell, or operate the drone in India. Why WPC Certification is Critical for Drone Importers and Retailers If you import or sell drones without WPC certification, you risk: Customs clearance delays or refusals Damage to your brand reputation Legal liabilities for your business and customers Final Thought Whether you’re a drone hobbyist, professional operator, or importer, don’t ignore the importance of WPC ETA certification. Ensuring your drone cameras have valid ETA approval keeps you compliant with Indian law, protects you from legal trouble, and ensures safe, uninterrupted operations.