In January 2022, the draft National Air Sports Policy (NASP) was released by the Ministry of Civil Aviation. In line with which flagship program does this policy promote the design, development and manufacture of aerial sports equipment in India?

Correct option is A

The National Air Sports Policy (NASP) 2022, released by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, aims to position India as a global hub for air sports. This policy focuses on promoting the domestic design, development, and manufacturing of air sports equipment under the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, India's self-reliance initiative. The goal is to reduce dependency on imports and boost indigenous production of aerial sports gear such as paragliders, drones, and paramotors.

The NASP also emphasizes safety standards, training infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks to promote various air sports, including paragliding, skydiving, aerobatics, and hot-air ballooning. The policy is expected to generate employment, attract global investments, and encourage innovation in the aviation sector.

Information Booster

• NASP 2022 promotes indigenous production of air sports equipment in line with Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
• It aims to make India a global leader in air sports.
• The policy will support infrastructure development, safety regulations, and training programs.
• The government will establish the Air Sports Federation of India (ASFI) to oversee air sports activities.
• Air sports tourism is expected to benefit from this policy.
• The policy encourages public-private partnerships (PPP) in aviation sports development.

Additional Knowledge

Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan

Correct answer. This initiative, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2020, aims at self-reliance in manufacturing, including aviation and defense equipment. NASP aligns with this vision by encouraging the domestic production of air sports equipment.

Stand-Up India

Launched in 2016, this scheme provides financial support to SC/ST and women entrepreneurs for starting businesses. Though it promotes startups, it does not focus on air sports manufacturing.

Make in India

A flagship initiative launched in 2014 to boost manufacturing and innovation, including in the aviation sector. While related, NASP specifically aligns with Atmanirbhar Bharat, which includes self-reliance in aviation sports equipment.

Skill India Mission

Introduced in 2015, this mission focuses on enhancing the skills of the Indian workforce. Though it can support training in air sports, it does not directly promote the manufacturing of aerial sports equipment.

Key Points to Enhance Knowledge

• NASP 2022 encourages investment in air sports infrastructure.
• The Air Sports Federation of India (ASFI) will regulate air sports activities.
• India has vast geographical potential for air sports, from the Himalayas to coastal areas.
• The global air sports industry is expected to grow, and India aims to be a leading player.
• Atmanirbhar Bharat focuses on reducing imports and promoting local production in multiple sectors, including aviation.