Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has successfully completed the inaugural flight of its Dhruv New Generation (NG) helicopter in Bengaluru, marking its formal entry into the civil helicopter market. The event also saw HAL receive DGCA certification for the indigenous manufacturing of the Shakti civil engine, a first for India. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu hailed the flight as a milestone for 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Viksit Bharat,' emphasizing India's growing aerospace capabilities. The Dhruv NG is positioned as a homegrown alternative to imported helicopters, with full civil certification expected within months.