Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak Bill gets nod in Rajya Sabha
- The Parliament on Thursday (December 5, 2024) passed the Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak Bill, 2024, which is expected to provide some relief to aviation personnel in their licensing processes.
Highlights:
- The Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak Bill, 2024, was passed by the Rajya Sabha on December 5, 2024, following its approval by the Lok Sabha on August 9. This legislation introduces crucial reforms in aviation licensing and regulatory frameworks, promising to streamline processes and enhance accountability.
Key Provisions of the Bill
- Licensing Reforms for Aviation Personnel
- Transfer of Licensing Authority:
- The Radio Telephone Operator Restricted (RTR) certification and licensing process, previously conducted by the Department of Telecom (DoT), has been transferred to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
- Single-Window Clearance:
- Aviation personnel, including pilots, aircraft maintenance engineers, and flight dispatchers, can now obtain all their certificates from the DGCA, eliminating bureaucratic hurdles.
- Curbing Corruption:
- The reform addresses allegations of widespread corruption in the RTR examination process under the DoT, where bribes were reportedly demanded from candidates.
- Expanded Regulatory Oversight
- Aircraft Design Regulation:
- The DGCA gains additional powers to regulate the design of aircraft and the locations where they are developed.
- Existing Provisions Retained:
- The Bill continues to regulate the manufacture, repair, and maintenance of aircraft, ensuring robust oversight.
Significance of the Bill
- Ease of Licensing:
- By consolidating certification processes under the DGCA, the Bill simplifies the licensing process for aviation personnel, reducing delays and improving transparency.
- Enhanced Accountability:
- The transfer of RTR certification to the DGCA is expected to address concerns of corruption and promote fair practices.
- Strengthening Aviation Standards:
- The additional regulatory authority over aircraft design enhances India’s capacity to ensure safety and quality in aviation operations.
- The Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak Bill, 2024, marks a significant step towards modernizing India's aviation regulatory framework and improving the efficiency of certification processes for aviation professionals.
Prelims Takeaways
- Rajya Sabha
- Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
- Department of Telecom (DoT)