Assam prohibits drone operations near Amur falcon roosting sites
The order follows reports of content creators and visitors flying drones close to congregations of the migratory raptors, apparently to capture photographs and videos for social media
The Assam government issued a ban on drone operations near Amur falcon roosting sites on November 6, 2026. The prohibition targets unauthorized recreational, commercial, and non-essential drone use, photography, and videography in and around these sites during the birds' seasonal presence. The order, issued by Assam's Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, aims to prevent disturbances to the migratory raptors while they congregate and roost in the state.
Divisional Forest Officers were directed to identify, demarcate, and protect sensitive roosting areas, while coordinating with district administrations and police for enforcement. The government emphasized public awareness and sensitization of tourists, photographers, content creators, and local communities. Udayan Borthakur of Aaranyak, a conservation group, highlighted the importance of Amur falcons as stopover locations during their annual migration from eastern Asia to southern Africa.
Borthakur stressed that drone flights, especially those with high-speed propellers, pose risks of injury and unnecessary disturbance to the birds. The conservation group hopes the ban will be strictly enforced, prioritizing wildlife safety over social media content and personal interests.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu - Sci-Tech's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
