Portal GARUD launched by DGCA

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) operating under Ministry of Civil Aviation launched “GARUD” Portal. GARUD is Government Authorisation for Relief Using Drones.

Highlights

• The GARUD portal will assist state entities to obtain exemptions from central government to operate drones for COVID-19 purposes. 
• The portal is important as several state entities are deploying drones to disinfect public places. 
• Especially, the smart cities are employing drones to spray disinfectants on the roads and other public places.

Start Ups

• Several startups in India are coming up with new technologies using drones to spray disinfectants and sanitizers. 
• For instance, the Garuda Aerospace startup has invented “Corona Killer” drone to spray disinfectants on buildings that are 450 feet high.
• At this stage, while Indian Economy is declining at faster rate due to the COVID-19 and lock down, it is essential to keep up such startups. 
• These startups will not only help in fighting the virus, but will also help in reviving the growth of the economy.

Growth Rate

• Several World Financial Organizations have projected declining growth rate of India. 
• The World Bank expects Indian economy to grow at 1.5% to 2.8%. 
• The IMF predicted growth rate of the country to be 1.9%. 
• The Fitch ratings cut India’s growth rate to 2%.