Fuselage Innovations, a deep-tech startup known for its advanced drone technologies, has been granted the prestigious 80-IAC Tax Exemption Certificate by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry. This certification is part of the Government of India’s Startup India initiative and places the company among an elite group of fewer than 200 startups nationwide to earn this recognition in 2025.
The 80-IAC certificate offers a 100% income tax exemption on profits for any three consecutive financial years within the first ten years of a startup’s incorporation. This incentive is aimed at easing the financial burden on early-stage ventures, enabling them to reinvest in innovation and scale operations.
Founder Devan Chandrasekharan Shares the Journey
Devan Chandrasekharan
Sharing the news on LinkedIn, Fuselage Innovations Founder Devan Chandrasekharan, who was recently named in Forbes India 30 Under 30 (2025), described the milestone as one of the biggest recognitions the company has received under the Startup India initiative.
He credited the achievement to the company’s early focus on strict compliance and financial discipline. “This was made possible because we trusted our process and compliances from the very beginning, focusing on building a strong foundation in finance and accounts, and most importantly, a complete due diligence framework,” Devan noted.
Impact on Drone Technology Accessibility
With the tax exemption now in place, Fuselage Innovations is set to offer its drones and drone-based services at significantly reduced prices. This makes the technology more affordable for farmers, local governments, and educational institutions across the country.
The company has also introduced subsidised service models, offering 40–80% discounts for applications like precision agriculture and drone training in underserved areas. This approach ensures that cutting-edge aerial solutions reach rural and remote regions, supporting inclusive tech adoption.
Support from Industry Leaders
Vinod Kumar, President of the India SME Forum, welcomed the development, stating that the 80-IAC certificate gives startups vital breathing space to innovate and expand without the immediate strain of tax obligations.
Onwards and Upwards
Fuselage Innovations continues to scale with its core mission of advancing deep-tech solutions that serve society. With this tax relief, the startup is poised to enhance accessibility and impact, while maintaining its strong foundation in regulatory compliance and sustainable growth.
