India’s next budget may include a new scheme called Drone Shakti that aims to grow the country’s own drone industry. If approved, the plan could give a big lift to several local companies that make drones or anti‑drone systems.
What is the Drone Shakti incentive?
The government is expected to announce a five‑year incentive programme under the Drone Shakti initiative in the 2026‑27 Union Budget. The scheme is designed to encourage Indian firms to build more unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) at home, reducing reliance on imports and supporting the Make in India agenda.
Companies that could benefit
Zen Technologies
Zen Technologies supplies defence simulators and anti‑drone (CUAS) solutions. It reported revenue of ₹173.60 crore in Q2 FY26, down from the previous year, and a net profit of ₹62 crore. The firm aims to reach a combined revenue of about ₹6,000 crore over FY26‑FY28, driven by its growing defence pipeline.
Paras Defence and Space Technologies
Paras Defence has a joint venture with Israel’s Heven Drones called Paras Heven Advanced Drones. The partnership focuses on building logistics and cargo drones that can carry 10‑40 kg and use hydrogen‑based power for longer flights. Revenue rose to ₹105.7 crore in Q2 FY26, with net profit climbing to ₹19.5 crore. The company also supplies imaging components for space and defence systems.
DroneAcharya Aerial Innovations
DroneAcharya offers drone training, defence systems, and custom drone designs for agriculture, logistics and infrastructure. In the first half of FY26, it earned ₹10.78 crore in total revenue and posted a net profit of ₹1.94 crore, showing improving margins and a stronger focus on defence orders.
Key points for investors
- Government support through Drone Shakti could accelerate growth for domestic drone makers.
- Each of the three companies is expanding its product range and seeing rising revenues.
- Investors should watch the final budget announcement and any specific incentive details.
- Consider each firm’s financial health, order pipeline and exposure to defence spending.
Disclaimer
Remember, this is just an overview, not a stock recommendation. Do your own research and consider your risk tolerance before investing.