RC India

HI all,
Great news. Aero Club of India, an apex body of INDIA for youth and aerosports has recognised our N Delhi aeromodellers club -  AMAI (Aero Modellers Association of India). We now have 30 members and by mid month should have 40 and by the calls we r getting it should hit 50 members of AMAI by next month. All cheers to Mr Vijendra Nagar who is the President of the AMAI and has been sloggng for the past one year.

Great News indeed. Congratulations, and thank you for all your efforts.
Its a dream when the responsible aeromodellers in our country can fly guilt free. Hopefully it will come true someday.

I am curious, how do we become members of the Aero Modellers Association of India? I am usually concerned that the cops will confiscate my spads and the TX... but, a membership ID card from a recognized organization will help feel less scared !

Indeed a great news Ramesh Sir. Is this an individual club or an umbrella organisation to recognize other clubs in city/institutes ? I hope other R/C clubs across the country should part away with any reservation and get associated with the club to have a national identity.

The word "India" in the club should give acceptance and recognition in govt/authorities matters.

AMAI is a N Delhi based rc modellers club, but there is nothing stopping modellers from any part of the country to become a member. It is simple, The one time membership fee is Rs 2,000 and  if anyone is interested in becoming a member, send me a personal request at my email, and i will send u the form which u must full up and attach 2 passport size pics and all details  of cheque to be made out are given, and address to which is also given. My e  mail add- rameshtahlan@yahoo.co.in

I am now copy and pasting what the President of AMAI has just sent me and it will answer a lot of questions -

I have been often asked -Why Should I join AMA?

The Answers are :

1.AMA will provide credence to the Hobby as a recognised sport and
hobby activity.

2.AMA will provide third party insurance cover.

3.AMA will provide an ID Card ,indicating that you are a part of an
organised and recognised sport activity.

4AMA will interact with the Administrative and Govt. agencies to
obtain and maintain your rights as a sport.

5.AMA will interact with international associations/clubs with similar
interest and share information.

6.AMA will provide a Manual to cover all details
of ,inception,rules,safety aspects and lots more as we develop them.

7.AMA will prepare instructor schemes and education programs.

8.AMA will provide free guidance and training to new comers in the
sport.

9.AMA members through its forum will share
information ,photos,videos,and exchange model goods.

10.AMA will have a regular teleconference(possibly video also) with
its Governing Body and members from other states,to continue to meet
their needs and incorporate new ideas into AMA.

Members could add more to this ,your AMA is an open democratic and
vibrant association -"WE participate we grow"

Best Regards

Vijendra Nagar

That is indeed a very good news. Is there any membership for the apex body ie Aero Club of India

Any one in India can become a member of Aero Club of India, i myself am  a member of ACI for past 30 years.

For benefit of all, here is the AMAI forum, u can register and start ur action to become a member and u will all the details of Identity Card and all - amaforum@googlegroups.com

That is a great step for this hobby in India :thumbsup:  I hope things work out as planned/proposed; and there is a good level of protection (including insurance) for flyers *who follow rules* in their flying.

I cannot see how a 2K one time fee can be used for life long insurance, I hope the organizers have thought all this through.

I do remember this thread about ACI, http://www.rcindia.org/rc-general-topics/rc-membership-cards/ , particularly this post :

http://www.rcindia.org/rc-general-topics/rc-membership-cards/msg18106/#msg18106

where the experience trying to work with ACI has been less than encouraging. History aside, we all hope that this plan goes through !

Anwar and all u guys,
2,000 is only for membership for AMAI, the President of AMAI is working with an insurance company on details of third party insurance, not insurance of ur plane and eqpt. The third party insurance once worked out will have to be paid separately.
I agree, working with with ACI is crazy, but u have to be selfish and keep banging ur head, well, the 1st step is done -  recognition of AMAI.
We have located the details of Ministry of Comm approval of 3 radio systems for rc, Futaba are on the WPC approved list:
4YF,  8FG,  T6EX,  All on 2.4 Ghz.
We r now in the process of getting approval for other brands  speciall JR on 2.4 for 9 Ch and Futaba 9 Ch and u will hear the good news when i give it to you. That is why we r doing the leg work, as ACI does not use its legs, but we using it as an umbrella, and praising that all movement forward is because of them.

Thank you Mr Ramesh, that clarifies a lot !

I will certainly be interested in becoming a member :) (after some more of the details are ironed out).

And it is great to see the list of radios that are WPC approved.  Indian Hobbies (Sunil) confirmed the Futaba 6ex 2.4 is approved, along with the Spektrum DX5i and DX6i ones (which you did not mention).  I wonder which hobby shop got the Futaba 4YF and 8FG approved, that would be interesting information for everyone ? 

My understanding is that WPC approval is for specific sellers/shops, as someone is required by the terms of the approval to collect and retain identity proof and contact details of each buyer of these approved radios.

Anwar.
we r working on 2 fronts. One is to get 2.4 approved for rc. Since approval already exists for only 4 frequencies in  27 mHz band, we want this to be changed and 2.4 incluced. The other issure that wenders have comlicated for thier own personal intrests is to get type approval. Had the matter been tackled for the comunity at large, then one had to do just one thing, make the ministry include 2.4 in their already approved 4 freq list in 27 mhz band. Any way, we r planning to get in touch with futaba and jr to get into some sort of  arrangement. Maybe some existing vendor would come forward or we will eventually find another way. But the problem with vendors in India is they keep a very narrow vision and self interest only, so we may have to come up with some real innovative idea. We may get ACI to get import approval since they spend a lot to give funds for modelling to schools and all. so its a matter of time when we hit a working solution. In the mean time, we are working to get as high a membership for AMAI to give it enough weght as a body which can tackle ACI. ACI does not want headaches to tackle every individual club in a one to one basis, so lets see, we have take one step, have to keep walking now.
Tahlan.

I am sure this is interesting information for authorized dealers like RCDhamaka, where in they can pursue WPC approval using the contacts of AMAI/ACI.  Sanjeev/Karthik - This is an avenue you should explore, which would help with even better sales/acceptance for Airtronics radio equipment.

I am sure this forum itself can give you like 200 to 300 members, if not more ! 

Kindly keep up posted on any further developments in this front, as this is something everyone has been looking forward to for a long time :thumbsup:

Thanks Anwar,
we need a huge croud if we r to tackle ACI and do something for the rc croud in Indai. We r primitive compared to the rest of the world, and the govt says we r competing with world powers.

With a person like Ramesh Tahlan leading this, no doubt you will get many many memberships. 2K is not a big figure for a lifetime enrollment for the peace of mind, and assurance to be a part of something we had been dreaming of for such a long time.

I Couldn't agree more Ramesh sir. I already had enough spat with a particular commercial community here in R/C circle on similar matter. This hobby needs true a Non-Profitable outfit for its upliftment with the least interference/conflict with ANY commercial entity. I don't say commercial entities are bad, but iota of their own preference may spoil the spirit of this hobby which largely thrives on freedom. I get horrified with assertion of such entities when they say that we cannot succeed without their complete involvement.

I would urge everyone in the R/C community to extend help from any of their acquaintance who have capacity to assist us, like those in Bureaucrat circle, people in Ministry etc.

All the best for your initiatives Ramesh sir.

Ujjwaana,
totally in agrement with u, i have been in this hobby for 45 years.  i have been flying in numerous cities across india, and in one city i was horrified to hear one gentleman say then 2.4 ghz sets r bad and will crash ur plane, Amazing, now i find that the same gentleman is selling 2.4 sets. It is this kind of thing that is taking this hobby backwards in  India.

That sounds very familiar ! I had a really tough time with such attitude elsewhere, where words and deeds are completely orthogonal !

Mr Ramesh,
I am not able to find any group by name 'amaforum' on Google group. Is the group hidden  and invite only ?

very very, very familiar. Thank you Anwar for this forum, once again.

I have the same problem. Have sent a PM but nothing yet.

I think it would be for the benefit of all the members of this forum for AMAI to - even in brief - inform all as to what the membership entails, for now as well as the foreseeable future, for members out of Delhi.. For example, what does the ID card do for one, outside Delhi?

A simple website - to start with -  would also be in order, I think. FAQ could be a part of this.

As for insurance, we have coverage for third party damage as part of our local club membership. We have also obtained police clearance to fly at the local field.

Perhaps it is really time for ALL local clubs to come together. Easier said than done, I know!

here is the forum again, an anyone can access it. amaforum@googlegroups.com

ok guys, here is the web site, http://amai.in  but have patience, it is the construction  stage, and every week it is being upgraded and updated.
Can some help, i am unable to upload a pic of mine onto rcindia so it appears in my profile and below my username.

Thanks for the website !  I also hope you discuss giving a more nationwide face to the organization, in terms of not only members, but also in terms of the committee that manages the association :)  I am sure people will have apprehensions about it being just a Delhi based thing.  Opening regional chapters seems like a good option.


Please use this link, and choose the "I will upload my own pic" option.

http://www.rcindia.org/profile/?u=853;sa=forumProfile

You may need to resize the image manually before upload, in case you get errors.

Here is a link to the membership information :  http://amai.in/Membership%20Form.htm

Ramesh, when are you uploading the images you have on Facebook of the opening ? I thought those were coming too.

Well done buddy. This is a big leap for Rc flyers in India.

I heard police were hastling park flying guys with threats to confiscate radio sets unless their palms were oiled.
We have BMFA here which provudes us 3rd party insurance provided all the rules are followed.

SEE HERE FOR POLICY DETAILS: http://www.bmfa.org/about/insurance.html     

The BMFA is the National Governing Body for the sport of model flying. Its aims are to promote, protect, organise and encourage model flying within the UK. Typically there are around 780 affiliated clubs and a combined membership of over 36,000 members, all of whom have entered a partnership to ensure that model fliers have a voice and their rights are recognised by the authorities.

Read a more detailed explanation of what the BMFA does here...
http://www.bmfa.org/about/whatwedo.html   

The mandate for the BMFA to do this comes from the Royal Aero Club, dating back to 1922, the Civil Aviation Authority and Sport UK.

http://groups.google.com/group/amaforum

The membership page says..
"At present a nominal membership fee of Rs. 2000/- is charged for initial membership"

What is initial membership? Also is it annual or lifetime? What was the rationale behind the 2000/- figure mark?

Also would like to know, if possible, what does the association do with the fee collected ?

regards

suggest u get onto the AMA forum - amaforum@googlegroups.com
all ur guestion will be answered.

Dear Ramesh Talhan,
Suggest that you post some public links here. Personally i do not join a group unless I am convinced in advance (pretty old fashioned in my ways).

regards

Pankaj,
for next 15 days, the forum has opened up certain data that is not normally available to non members. In any case, after u read everything on the forum or web site , u can unsubscribe any time. like this i wil be siting whole day just cut and pasting every thing bit by bit. U have the option to unscribe and only u can do it, so where is the problem, come on man, live in the age we r in, i have just retired from the air force, i dont find anything wrong with forms anywhere in the world, u take what ever information u want and throw out what ever u dont want, it is so simple. here is the web site - http://www.amai.in/ so start doing some reading man. cant spoon feed u now. No one in past 70 years has been able to achieve what ama has achieved. So if u dont want to be a member, ur choice baby. And let me assure u, times r only going to get tougher for rc flyiers.
Take care
Ramesh Tahlan.

Ramesh ,

Well said   :salute: :salute: :thumbsup:

Just a thought can this recognition be used as a precedence  and other clubs approach ACI for  a similar recognition OR can we become members of AMA  even if we are based in Chennai .
Can  you help if Educational institutions aero club's need  a similar recognition .
In fact I think if  all of us can come under  a single umbrella rather than re invent the wheel for each town and city .

I am ready to  join right away if persons outside Delhi can be members

Sai

With all due respect for your seniority and what you have accomplished, I think this is OTT and unwarranted.

Mr.Ramesh already mentioned that ACI does not seem to want to deal with multiple clubs. It would be interesting to know how flexible they are with this, but that would seem to be a question of ACI itself.

Anwar

The home page of ACI states:

"ACI is the apex body of all...aerosports organisations in India which are engaged in ....aeromodelling..."

No question of ACI not considering local clubs as affiliates/associate members, I would think.

The bureaucratic part could well be another story, though!

I wish it worked that way :)

Apparently, you have to consider things like : http://www.rcindia.org/rc-general-topics/rc-membership-cards/msg18106/#msg18106

This is a starting point... and after the dust settles, who knows there would be regional clubs which have the same "accreditation".  As long as peoples egos don't come into play and/or we have 50 associations in India with 15 members each ! It makes every bit of sense to have ONE with 1000. 

But I am well aware of the fact that egos do come into play, sooner or later :( Mahatma Gandhi died over 60 years ago... if you know what I mean.

I would think an easier and faster  way which could make ACI happy as well is to have regional chapters of AMA like a tree under it  so that the regional chapter automatically is also recognized.
Ego's  need to be put aside from a practical point of view  the hobby is anyway individualistic  so if you get some  form of  official recognition that helps you go about your flying  it is good enough

rcforall,
 U said in man. that is the way to go. even i could not have put it better.
Thanks pal
Ramesh Tahlan

Thanks Ramesh ,
As per me it just does  not  make sense to go about approaching the govt for each club you guys  got one  so why not  expand the tree  downwards  so that you just don't have to keep reinventing the wheel and  going thru the grind of  turning each gear in the govt machinery every time .

I am ready to  start  looking at putting together a Chennai Chapter if your are ready  and  guide me on the requirements  .

Sai

Good idea, Sai. But where would the ARMI  (Chennai) then fit in?

Starting point  ( rename to Chennai chapter ) :headscratch:  I am sure many might not  be averse to the idea if they get  official recognition without  doing anything except becoming a member of AMA .

ARMI : Have not heard from the officials for long so will check their status if AMA's  ready .

Wouldn't it be wonderful if Bangalore, Pune, Mumbai etc also went with AMAI, and the AMAI membership card would allow access to fields like Jakkur, Hadapsar, Mahalakshmi et al.

This is the whole point. only if organizations like AMAI get authorized to 'Affiliate' other clubs in the country on behalf of ACI/Govt of India, just like WPC approves individuals and HAM clubs (Red-tapism there is a different story, ask person like me), they would solve a long lasting problem of legitimity of this hobby.

But then AMAI has to raise above just 'N-Delhi' charter to make it a success. If they are thinking laterally on the terms of AMA of US, then it does make sens to individual R/C flyers in other city like us. If the membership bestows the following legal entitlement  to flyer, then I see this at the biggest bliss to R/C flyers in the country till date:

1. Some kind of Photo ID card, stating one is a legitimate R/C flyers. something like Driving licence. (Highest priority)
2. The above ID furnishing saves one from Police manhandling
3. Entitlement to fly EP foamies in public park, not near sensitive areas, with proper precaution taken (Low Priority).  
4. Ease of importing R/C gear like hard to get Engine/Electronics/ARF-RTF kits.
5. Ease of carrying R/C gear on Airlines/Road etc.

If it is not making R/C flying 'Govt Authorized' to at least some extent, then I don't see a point to be part of it except on technical discussion front.

I am not sure that is helpful. No one is compelled to do anything, including providing/reproducing information voluntarily.  It is up to the individual to seek it, using available information/guidance.


I did find the following information on the amaforum list.  I am posting this for the benefit of everyone including AMAI (probably this should be on the website), but if this information is privileged, I will be most glad to remove it.

1.How do I become a member of AMA?
Download and  Fill the form of AMA available at http://www.amai.in,  Attach one photo,sign it ,attach one spare photo for the ID card and give personally or courier to the secretary Mr.Ashok Shukla at address given at the website.

2.What are the membership fees and annual subscription?.
The membership fee is Rs.2000.0 and the annual subscription is Rs.1000.0 

3.Who can become a member?
Any aeromodeler in India can become a member.

4.Who maintains the flying field?
The flying field is maintained by the users of the field,i.e.members who fly at Mundka share the cost of developing and maintaining the field,likewise those flying at Noida and Bhondsi share the cost at these flying fields,this is also valid for members at other cities  and towns.Even at these location common interest goups like ,heli flyers ground vehicles,operators can develop a patch meeting their need with consent of the other users.Let us respect the right of every field user to have his share of enjoyment in cooperation with other users.   

5.What is the advantage of joining AMA?
AMA with the support of Aero Club Of India ,will strive to resolve the current issues facing modelers every where.
Recognition by administrative bodies and acceptance by authorities in local Police,Security,Communication frequency issue,customs issues etc.
All these issues involve a large no. of different govt. bodies who have to be apprised of our activity as an aero-sport and be given due recognition.
This is not going to happen overnight ,so please bear with the association and provide support and guidance as and when required.

6.What are funds of the association used for?
The Association plans to use the funds for the following purpose benefitting all modelers:
a.For getting the ID cards made.
b.For printing necessary stationary-letter heads,reciept books,registers ,files etc.and administrative costs associated.
c.For paying the Auditor for annual audits of account.
d.For organising Competitions .
e.For prize money.
f.Other expenses as accepted by members in General body meeting.

Ujjwaana,
U r trying to reach the moon in first go man. Slow down buddy. It took 70 years to get this one part, spend ur life time to take the next step and my be ur grand children will get Govt authorisation. Dude, this is a hobby, which we r trying to protec, not sell to Govt of India.
So take one small step. Cause in any case till now every one was on their own and we can carry on like this. not a problem. But we intend to keep walking, if other clubs dont want to walk with us, no issue dude.

Piped dream! just to fly in Jakkur, we need earnest effort from people like Aadarsh. If people like him doesn't put their personal effort to get through new flyer in, the authorities wont even buzz and accept such activity is undertaken on the airstrip.

I think AMAI should be like 'Passport' - recognition by the Central Indian Authorities. Where you fly - a local Club or empty field is on your own discretion. Local club membership may not help if you are apprehended on the road ferrying your planes to the Flying field, or when having a casual foamie flying in local park. AMAI Card should also target such situations.

Dear Anwar,
Thanks for listing out the details. It is indeed helpful.

Dear Ramesh,
What I needed as of now has been answered in the post from Anwar. I had expected something similar and certainly did not expect the kind of response that you have posted. Chief, you might be doing a whole lot of good for the entire community, but as of now, your site is not comprehensive - I had visited the amai.in website before posting the query.
Like I have said, I would have liked all the information in the website without joining a online group - however, when I read my entry, I think it can easily have been mistaken to understand that I did not wish to become a member of amai.

That said, I wish we can continue to keep the tone of communication at a more respectable level

regards

Pankaj dude,
AMA has just about taken birth man, no offence to u at all, and like i said, we have not learnt to walk as yet, just wanted to say that dont ask us to go for olympics immediately, hahaha. greateful if u take it in that spirit. I am not on the manageing committee of AMA, but i have pledged my support. cause already some guys here locally are famous in breaking up which ever club is formed. I will request any one who is an rc enthusiast to just support, cause let me assure u, the walk is going to be very very long, and my estimate is that the grandchildren of  present rc comunity will feel the full benifit of what we have started, This is my point.
So Pankaj, if in Delhi, one drink on me man.

Of course it is a dream for now (hopefully conveyed clearly with the "wouldn't it be wonderful" part!).  But there is an important aspect we need to realize with what is happening now.  Ever since this forum is started and I began interacting with people, we have had no less than 6 threads talking about getting organized and gaining some sort of voice/approval/legality etc for RC in India. I don't know if people realize this, but we have just had someone make the effort to actually DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT ! So I for one, feel like we should put our weight behind this effort by the AMA (and it is good to see that people like Sai feel the same).

On the part of the AMA, such broad support automatically comes with even more responsibilities; but with whole-hearted co-operation from everyone, this would be an slow yet steady march towards progress of this hobby in India.

For one, who ever knew that certain Futaba models have already been WPC approved ? This certainly proves that getting WPC approval is not such a big deal.  I see lots of discussion around that in the amaforum board, including the application form to be used, and list of documents to be provided (mainly FCC testing report).


I am glad you join me on "dream"s, but hopefully they are dreams only for a short while !

That's the spirit :thumbsup:

Dear Ramesh,
Indeed I am in Delhi and you are on!!!

BTW, I am keen to get in touch with flyers in East Delhi/Noida side, any help would be appreciated.

Pankaj

You mean the liquid type Anwar..... I will drink to that too. Cheers!!!
Ramesh go man go.... you are doing well for our grandchildren dude.....

And Pankaj is coming around soon buddy, so keep those beers chilled...
Pankaj can you have one on me too while you are with him..

Are you in touch with Karma in New Rajinder Nagar and Kuldeep Gangwani in East Delhi??  

Deepak (b4ggu),

Dude, I had completely missed you PM. Will get in touch with Kuldeep.. Thanks pal.

 

WHAT A PLEASANT & LOVELY REPLY BY A HARD CORE VETERAN FLYER....

Rishi Kumar owner of "INDIA HOBBY CENTRE " (opp Plaza cinema in Connaught Place, New Delhi in my time) sent this reply to my email ........
  "Thanks for the news. SMAEI was recognised by the Aero Club Of India way back in the 70s with Air Shows in all airports every year for at least a decade. It was the days of hobby flying where a 60 plane was gigantic. Everyone flew 20/25s.
 
  Anyway till 2006 we were with ACI but did not pursue it as my father is very old now, sons have other agenda and we are too far away from New Delhi to pursue matters.
 
 We have 2 lovely fields in Kolkata. We have local permission. things may change though so its good to know things are moving in the Centre.
 
   I enjoy flying my park flyers in Tha Maidan. We have 5 flyers going 4 times a week. Twins, gliders and brushless jets. Most of all not Arfs but we like the challenge to fly Experimentals.
 
  Thanks Baggu, come visit the home of Mills and Mercury Kits !
 
  Rishi"

Hey Rishi I wish you had the time to join this forum and share your vast experience with all of us....  

East Delhi has Allan who is a South Arican but white in colour. real good guy to have around. And u need to avoid some trouble makers. Allans e mail is allan_lr@msn.com
Ramesh Tahlan.

I had some confusion here. I thought that Rs 2,000/- was a one time lifetime membership fee . But i got to know that you have to pay Rs 1,000/- annually to renew.
Is this correct , and does everyone know of it ?

I think it is a fair and pretty much a standard practice.  It does make sense to have a "life membership" option for who choose/prefer that, and something like a 10 to 15 year annual fee is what is usually charged for the same.  The logic seems to be that if the 10 years of annual fee is considered an investment/deposit, the interest from the same would be close to the annual fee, so it is sort of a win-win situation.

Ramesh

If in Mumbai, unlimited drinks on me! And that is now a promise in writing!!

sushil,
 u on man, but on the field, one drink one sorte, one drink one sortie .......till .......
Hope to catch up with u some day.

India Hobby Center...... what fond memories of the shop in Russel street - Kolkata. It was here way back in 79-80 (or there about) that I got into balsa  - from chuck gliders to control line modelling. It used to be my favorite hangout. All I could do those days was to dream of owning a 4ch RC set "some day". I do recall there was a flyer also called Anwar who used to dole out advice on how to go about building, applying "dope" and what not. I do remember listening to him with reverence.......

I also recall visiting the shop a couple of years back and it really pained me to see the state of affairs. Same thing for the shop in CP, Delhi....

Pankaj

Irshad Anwar. I do also have fond memories of him and IHC Cal.

Irshad Anwar is still going strong in Calcutta.
Ramesh Tahlan

The following news bits are from the AMA mailing list.

1. Mr Ramesh Tahlan and other Delhi flyers have formed a "Delhi Modelers Association" (DMA).  He has also been proposed as a "Regional Secretary" of AMA.

2. Sai (of rcforall.in) has been proposed as the Regional Secretary of AMA for Chennai.

Seems like AMA is trying to include/involve aeromodellers from all part of the country, which is the right thing to do.  If the other clubs also started working with AMA and have regional secretaries (and possibly other officers in due course), this would certainly be the all India level association/voice everyone have been waiting for.

It would be great if AMA officials can clarify their future plans for inclusion of regional clubs (ala opening of regional chapters), so as to put everyone at ease and help with the membership drive. I have requested some more information about the same on their discussion forum.  The issue of life membership has also been raised.

Here is the response from Mr Vijendar Nagar (President of the AMA).


It should be noted that the registration and annual fee for students have been halved to Rs1000 and Rs500 respectively.

No problem, so long as you "leak before you loop" !!

I guess Aadarsh would be the unanimous choice to Head the Bangalore chapter ....

By default its understood if its for Bangalore then it will be and it should be ADARSH.  :salute:

Can you please let me know who has got these approvals i.e. the company that has got the approval from WPC.

+1.  There is a lot of interest in knowing who secured the approval for the Futaba radios. 

The AMA discussion forum has some details on how to check the approval information.


It seems like RC India member laxmansuthar (http://www.rcindia.org/profile/?u=240) may have some valuable input on this matter.  Here is something he posted about the approval process.

BTW, I have been trying to access the WPC website (http://www.wpc.dot.gov.in) for the past couple of days, to see who got the Futaba approvals.  It has been down for the entire time it seems ! 

Finally I was able to register, login and try to see the list of approved equipment/radios/transmitters.  The infomation made available to logged in users only lists the manufacturer name and equipment model.  The list is currently as follows.

FUTABA CORPORATION  - 8FG 2.4Ghz
FUTABA CORPORATION  - 4YF 2.4Ghz
FUTABA CORPORATION  - T6EX 2.4Ghz
HORIZON HOBBY, INC.  - DX5e - 5CH Full range 2.4Ghz
HORRIZON HOBBY INC  - DX 6i6CH Spectrum Radio

The names are as is, including spelling mistakes ;)

So far, we know Indian Hobbies have the two Spektrums and Futaba 6ch covered.  Not sure who got the other two Futaba models approved.  The WPC website does not seem to allow users to look at details of the approvals (except their own).

In terms of import applications, I can see Rotor Chennai as the only other application, other than Indian Hobbies, so there is a good chance that the other two are being done by them.  Rotor's application shows dates between 13 April 2010 and 20 April 2010.

Some one in Chennai may please confirm.

I have been informed that the membership of AMA includes 3rd party insurance now (to the tune of 20lakhs).  This organisation seems to be taking serious steps towards becoming the first national level association for aeromodelling enthusiasts in the country.  Since no one has gone so far as these guys have, I have decided to join their efforts.

Yes, there are some concerns about the fees, and the fact that it is a too much of a Delhi focus.  End of the day, these are minor issues, and the overall leadership seems to be a bunch of dedicated folks, who wants to do something for this hobby in our country.

I see other good things coming out of this.  For example, I expect in the near future, we will see samples of individuals going to the WPC to get import licenses for radios before importing, instead of waiting for the shops to do it. The AMAI has made some contacts with the WPC in this regard.   

Looking forward to further good things coming out of this (as opposed to all talk so far).

Add to that, they have an updated website too : http://www.amai.in

Anwar, perhaps you should link it from your Master links/resources page on this forum ?

You are spilling the beans Anwar bhai!! few people here won't me amused. I ended up going silent on the 'Other' forum for being pro 'Empowering Thy Flyer Fraternity' !

Hope this actually happens beyond just being on agenda/papers! Even today, hardly any high end Radio is Type approved and sold absolutely legally. And I see quite many takers for such high ends.

I am not sure I get the point. Rest assured, we are open to spilling any kind of beans ;)  (Even though I am not sure who would get upset with this kind of information).

The Futaba 8FG is a serious radio, and it has type approval for someone.  I wish folks from Chennai are able to call up Arvind (Rotor Hobbies) and check if they are the ones who got the approval for this radio. If not, what kind of radio they got the import approval for ?

This forum exists to completely empower the individual fliers first (whether it is Hobbycity news or being able to individually get type approval for radios), at the same time provide a level playing field for all hobby stores.

Also, someone was commenting in private to me that this AMA is just another club, and other clubs in the country are going to soon get ACI's blessings, so this is nothing really to get excited about.  The Delhi focus was another issue.

My response was as below :

Additional details about insurance coverage from Vijendra Nagar, President of the AMAI :


So it is important to get your local field accredited by the AMAI.  Along with that, it is important to follow the safety instructions of the AMAI, which are common sense rules anyways.

It is fun to see the "crab mentality" (no crab can escape because the others pull them down!) expressed by some folks towards this effort ;D  Other than the fee structure which can take some adjustment in terms of having a local club only fees (the overall fees is lower, and part of it is paid to the AMAI) AND becoming more inclusive as a pan-India body in its governing council membership, so far the effort is the only one of its kind.  People should give such efforts at least a chance !

It is good to have connections (however feeble or strong they are!).  Some of the folks associated with AMA (and DMA) come from various walks of life which can all help with gaining better official recognition for this hobby.

Case in point, this picture of our member Capt. Ramesh Tahlan, with someone who probably is not well known for his RC activities :)

From the DMA gallery at : http://www.amai.in/gallery/10

(http://www.amai.in/uploads/enlarge_694617461.jpg)

Anwar,
Though i appreciate you updating this thread with the developments from AMA, and the openness of this forum, I am not sure how justified it is to take a picture from the DMA page and post it here, without permission from Capt. Tahlan. Had you linked to the page, it would have been a different story.
-Gaurav

Gaurav - That was an accidental omission, which I have corrected now.  Thank you for pointing it out.  I was not able to get the direct link to the image to work (that was the initial plan), which would have acknowledged the source automatically. When that did not work, I made the local copy, and missed adding the link to the post. 

And my intentions are clear that this is in support of the AMA, and my policy on anything posted about the AMA is amply clarified at  http://www.rcindia.org/rc-locations-and-clubs/recognition-of-aero-modellers-association-of-india-(n-delhi)-by-aci/msg20656/#msg20656  where I have clarified that "any privileged information will be removed if requested/objected".

Also, even though this is public information, I had sent a note to Mr Ramesh about posting this here again, and that I will remove it if he see this unfit. I was just trying to illustrate that the folks who are putting efforts behind AMA are well known in the RC circles, and have contacts that can help make things better for everyone (if things work as intended).

Finally, when your developers reproduced quite a bit of the board structure of RC India on the forum created for AMAI, they made a bunch of spelling mistakes in the "RC Equipment" section :giggle:  Words like "electric" and "techniques" are mis-spelt ! I guess RC India being open, such give and take is normal ? ;)

In general, we try to respect copyright information as much as we can, and I intend to lead by example :)

No issues, Anwar, Just wanted you to acknowledge the link.
Re: reproducing the board structure, well you have done such a great job, that once you have seen the structure, you tend to just think of it as the best. In any case, AMA forum is only restricted to use by members and yours is an open forum, so nothing really to do with each other.

Keep the good work Anwar bhai, these small omission happens, and I bet sporty people like Ramesh sir would not mind such illustrations.

Rahul Gandhi's dad, Late Mr Rajeev Gandhi, who was HAM himself, helped the HAM community get huge waiver in Customs duty on import of HAM Radio Transrecievers, which stands at mere 5% today if I am right.
What could be better for the the R/C fraternity that similar highly influential people, if not such customs waiver, make import of R/C stuff hassle free.

Hoping for the best.

PS: wouldn't it be better that we create a clean, 'Sticky' thread on AMAI membership where only mods/Mr Ramesh post , so that there is less clutter.

In short AMAI is good or bad?  ???

Only time will tell  how AMAI will turn out ;)





Sanjay

A small correction
He is Group Capt Tahlan, not just Capt. (in Navy and Air force terms it would be same) but in Army terms it would be much junior
In short you could call him Groupie or Gp Capt

From what I see on the AMAI list, it has already panned out a bit in the north and a bit in the south, with regional chapters now in Allahabad, Chandigarh, Chennai, Gurgaon, Lucknow, New Delhi, Noida and Punjab.  Looks like this would be first effort to build an all inclusive club.

There are details being ironed out, especially regarding institutional membership etc, but these are issues that will be sorted in due course. I, for one, am excited to see this happening :)

hi all and and Anwar,
1.  I saw that Anwar had picked up and image of me and Rahul Gandhi and pasted it on this forum. And dear friend Gaurav had pinted out something, so i thought it would be right to say someting, Anyone is welcome to pick up any image taken by me, No issue, i do not want copyright as it is for the larger interest of the hobby , which i feel every one must enjoy. So, by all means, if some image helps u, so take it, i will be previlaged.
2.  I also saw Capt mentioned. hahaha, guys, my in laws till today still call me Pilot Officer which is the first rank when i joined the fighter branch of the IAF, so when they introduce me as Pilot Officer, it does make me feel young, hahaha.
3.  And lastly, any club can become associate member directly with ACI. Have no apprehensions.
4.  Aeromodelling rocks man, if i did not have rc as my hobby for last 43 years or so, i would have either become a drunkerd or gone mad. My wife always wondered, why after flying 3 sorties in a Russian figher, where u sweat like a pig, would come home and walk straing into my hobby room. Man, it felt great and relaxing, hope it is the same for u guys.
4.  Happy Landings.

Ramesh, please enlighten me... What is the difference between group caption and caption?? Does Group Caption caption a group of captions??

Deepak,
A Capt is in the army is the second rank, in the Airforce a Group Capt is the 5th rank, and the first rank when u start wearing those leaves on ur shirt collars, and  in the Navy, the Capt is the same as the Gp Capt in the air force.
Take care buddy, hope u not deciding to join the armd forces now, though, mind u, the pay is attractive now.  hahaha.
Ramsh Tahlan

I have gone past the sell by date to be in the army, approaching take it easy times now Ramesh... just curious.

Aeromodeller for 43 years  :o and {:)}, Ramesh you would be a great source on this forum. Do you have any place online of your aeromodelling career. Or is the AMAI site?

hi all,
Good news, We had a meeting with AMA managing committee on Saturday, and the fee structure has been sorted out totally. It is now really good and structured to encourage every one to join.  It is based on a long term strategy. The membership has jumped from 35 to over 50 overnight.
Happy landings to all
Ramesh Tahlan (RS for DMA, N Delhi)

tg,
I am not just for the AMA croud, i am  for the rc world.
i have some bad habbits. I dont touch an rc engine, unless i read the booklet that comes with it from page one to page last. I find 90% of modelers who will not look at the manufactures booklet. 95% dont know how to run in an engine.  Being a fighter pilot, we had to pass 2 tests before we were allowed any where near the aircraft, one was Checks and Procedures - pass marks 80%, and second was Emergencies - pass marks 100%. And i have continued with the same habbit with the hobby.
One day i reached a field in Delhi, and 2 modellers were strugling in getting the OS 75 to start, after 5 min i could not hold back and commented that any OS engine should start in 2 flicks. So, in a very challenging voice i was told - ok u start it. I did some basic stuff of my own ( actually by the book) ie, adjusted all needles to what the mannual says, sucked in fuel, and u will not beleive it , on the 2nd flick, the engine fired. hahaha, well u can imagine what would had been my plight if it had not fired hahaha, may be the gods were on my side.
Buddy, it is so thrilling, when, with me in Delhi, and i get calls from Pune and Lucknow from friends who r on the field, and i am helping them sort out engine problems, 2 and 4 stroke, over the mobile phone. hahaha, its thrilling. and to my utter surprise i have not failed till now.
Ramesh Tahlan

I was about to fill up the membership form but I think I need clarification....

On the AMAI membership form, page 2 AMA rules there is the following clause

"8. I will not operate model aircraft carrying pyrotechnic devices which explode or burn, or any device, which propels a projectile
of any kind."

Given the fact that most electric models have LiPO cells which are likely to explode on crash, does this mean that flyers of electric models cannot become members?
MAYBE this is a statutory line that needs to be reworded because even the nitro fuel burns :D

regards
Pankaj

Batteries are batteries and fuel is fuel (and both are not really "pyrotechnic devices").  Fire-crackers and rockets are not really in the same class ;)

I am curious about the new club membership details etc.  There are no details even on the AMA discussion list.

I believe Nitro Methane is more prone to explosion than what LiPos have been demonised for. this would make all power R/c planes out of purview.

Pyrotechnic devices includes apparatus which are designed to to explode including Chemical, Triggering fuse and other electronic devices like triggers.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pyrotechnic

Any chemical/apparatus which *MAY* explode due to malfunction does not come into Pyrotechnic  apparatus.

This clause is for safeguard from flyers who may like to put small firecracker, drop bombs, etc for exhibition purpose. Though such displays do take place in the west, they are very much regulated and carried over in fields outside the city premises. I guess this a reasonable clause, considering the security concerns of authorities, infact this is the one of the nightmare of R/C planes authorities have - terrorists dropping some kind of bomb (plastic explosive ? have they arrived in their hands ?)

Ok guys , i failed to attach the fee structure for joining AMA, and u can attach only the image file, and i have a .doc file ie, word file.
Ramesh Tahlan

Please send it to the email address at the bottom left of any page here.

Thank you... the file is attached.

Anwar,
I have sent the final fee structure of AMA to the e mail add below on ur web page, We had a meeting on Sat night, and have got it into very good shape for every one.
And some one asked about carrying pyrotecs. Yes. No carrying of any type of rockets etc, on rc planes, it is a securiy requirement. u can fly elec, nitro or gas, but no carry of rockets and all that kind of stuff.  After the Mumbai Customs episode, which was shown by a TV channel in very bad taste on national network and as a threat to nation. 2 of the rc members had a meting with home ministery, and they told us that if we do not formalise rc hobby soon, there is a strong case to ban any kind of rc activity. So that is why this full throttle effort to make AMA a formal single national rc voice, through ACI. I am very please to say, that 22 May will be a land mark day for rc comunity, we have been able to finally make a fee structure, so that one and all can join.
Happy landings
Ramesh Tahlan

Dear Ramesh,
There seems to be a mismatch in the fee structure. The one attached in this forum is different to the form in the AMAI website.

Pankaj

Hi
Pankaj,
Thanks for pointing it out, what has probably happened, is that the form was finalised earlier, and the fee structure was finaliseed only on 22May. will let the AMA lot know, so they can redo the form
Ramesh Tahlan

Are these regions a static list or is one created only when members join from a specific region? Don't see Bangalore yet or is because no members have joined in from here. Seems like regions = states?? Won't it be better to have regions that consolidate otherwise fragmented groups?

tg,
Hi, here is Mr Nagars e mail add vijendragm@gmail.com u could ask direct questions as he is the President of AMA, so that there is no ambiquity, he will be definitely please to answer
Regards
Ramesh Tahlan

Anyway its very interesting to a member in this organisation, please let me know . how we apply.prakkat

prakkat,
go to amai.in
all the forms and everything is there on the web site
Ramesh Tahlan

Hi, is there anyway to upload pics in the galery on amai, coz I see no such way of doing the same.,...
Regards,

Divay

divay,
u can uploa, i had told them that this facility must be given to members only. cause initially, only Regional Secretary could do it, which is painful to say the least.
Ramesh Tahlan

Divay, you may email the pics to me. I have access to the gurgaon chapter.
Talhan Sir I would prefer that only the RS upload the pics for some more time. The photos being uploaded need to be moderated before they appear on the website. The moderators for the amai site need to be appointed 1st for that.

Sure Sandeep Sir... will do the same....

Sandy.
ok, with u.
Regards
Ramesh Tahlan

I felt its high time to bring  this 'One of the most crucial step in Indian R/C scene' out of cold storage.

With actors like Imran khan ridiculously asked to get approval for getting a Toy Heli, and seeing a bunch of highly talented kids not able to get close to Jakkur fiel ,BLR ( which for being a Govt flying club and also a NCC hub, should be a natural right for them), I really marvel if bodies like AMAI could achieve most burning charters of their foundation ?

Many people like me would like to hear from people who joined AMAI, if all ended up with 'Feel good' factor or they really got some thing substantial after joining.

LHS could sell volume and go in price war mode. People could import from Online Hobby shop with ease. But with R/C flying itself being a Hush-hush affair, it more looks like addiction to Marijuana - every one knows it is available, but can't enjoy openly!!

just my 2 :Rs:

I was all set to join, then realized that it does need a bit of wait and see attitude, especially after seeing a nasty fight inside the core group.  Wanted to see what they actually achieve (other than membership), to promote the hobby.  Insurance is a good thing, but that is just a "private" affair, which anyone with means and persistance can do.

Like Ujjwal said, what is being done in terms of "recognition" is what many (including me) are waiting for.

Still Waiting....

Hi Guys,
There have been the normal apprehensions about AMA and I stayed away from the discussion,as we were too new and there were many tasks before us.
We are now 8months old and I would like to apprise you of the small steps taken to support the hobby in India:

  AMA was formed in 2009,as result of a model in Delhi straying away into a populated area,the owner of the model was grilled by the police and felt completely helpless.A strong need was felt to have a registered body to give credence to the hobby and to provide third party insurance.

AMA was made open to other aeromodelers in May 2010 and formally launched.

Some aeromodelers who are now current members of AMA met the Home Minister,in early 2010,to apprise him of the activity and requested him to allow continuation of the hobby,and not to ban it due security reasons as was being considered at that time.
It is because of this initiative that all aeromodelers are able to continue to enjoy the hobby,if at all.

Continuing in the same spirit ,affiliation to the Aero Club of India was sought to have an umbrella organisation under which we could get acceptance as an Aerosport ,this was obtained in May 2010.

Subsequently Insurance cover was also organised for all members.AMA also made the Aeromodelers aware of safe operating procedures.A lot of information is there on our website :www.amai.in.

Considerable time and voluntary effort by all members of the governing body went into the process of coming this far,in a short span of six months.

AMA members took part in the events at Narnaul on the request of Aero Club,and participated at the fun fly meet in Patiala,they are now organising the meet in 12th and 13th.February 2011 at Delhi.

We are in constant touch with Aero Club ,and have once more made a request to follow up with the customs and WPC regarding our difficulties in these areas.Considerable study and ground work(time consuming) has gone into preparing the case files for these.Aero Club is actively working on this.

Aeromodelers all over India are benefitting and will benefit from our efforts in promoting this hobby,whether members or not.

We have had a good response from aeromodelers who joined as they saw the greater benefit to the community and support for their own cause and the organisation.

AMA has brought Aeromodelers together on an all India platform,which will continue with the goodwill of those who recognise the future benefits to this growing hobby.

We look forward to active support from all aeromodelers to take this process forward.

Vijendra Nagar
President
Aero Modelers Association(AMA)

Pleased to inform all aeromodelers
one more small step forward-AMA and Wings India of Mumbai are affiliated
for the benefit of members of both.
Details on website: http://www.amai.in

Direct link : http://www.amai.in/news/24

And a warm welcome to RC India, Mr. Nagar :)

Thank you Anwar,
We are taking up the issue of customs through Aero Club of India,the file is too large for attachment,but would be glad to send by email to person/s interested to see it.

The case for the frequency allocation is under preparation to be taken up with Min.Of Communications.

Inputs from aeromodelers are invited.

Kindly forward the file to the address on the bottom left of any page on this forum (in the green footer area), and I shall make it available for access to all.  The audience would be greatly interested in the contents :)

Glad to see the AMAI taking initiative in this direction :thumbsup:

That is such a great news..i guess you succeed  with your initiative. I guess the two most important frequencies for rc will always remain 72 Mhz and 2.4 GHz. Have been thinking from a long time now to join as a life time member...will do that soon now

Regards
Ankur

File made available : http://www.rcindia.org/myfiles/dgft2.pdf

Thank you Mr Nagar !

Superb. I am keeping my fingers crossed that the ACI will do its part.

AMA USA has a membership induction program:

THE "SIGN 3 • FLY FREE" PROGRAM
Rules:
Receive a one year AMA membership credit for each three (3) new or former AMA members who join. (Yes, you can earn more than one free year!)
All new or former memberships must be full Open or Senior Citizen memberships to qualify. New sign-ups cannot be current or recent AMA members. (Their memberships must have expired by 12/31/2005.)
Sponsoring member's name and AMA number must be clearly identified on each new member's application.
Current AMA Life Members will receive an AMA merchandise credit of equal value to a 1 year free membership.
Your free membership credit will be applied to the next AMA membership year.We would like to offer :

AMA India would like to offer:
Free membership for one year for any one who enrols three adult members,so go ahead and promote the hobby and promote AMA

ACI has, after a lot of persuasion sent a letter to DGFT on the import tissue,this will be posted on our website :amai.in under -About AMA-AMA documents.for all to view and send in their feed back.

AMA continues its effort on furthering the cause of aeromodeling without prejudice to any one ,including those against it.We will persue this effort personally with DGFT,till desired results are achieved.

The next effort is on with WPC on the frequency issue.

So keep flying and support your own cause.

AMA and its advertisers are supporting a service to the members of AMA,one of the advertisers -FOCUS IMAGING AND RESEARCH CENTRE PVT.LTD is offering 10% discount to AMA members at several of its centres for pathology and scan services.

Good people support a good cause-always.

Aero Modelers Association has been validated and added to the Boeing list of pre-approved organizations.

The process of approving recipients is centralised at the US office,Boeing provides grants to prestigeous educational institutes like IIT's etc.for research on aviation topics.

We had a very successful event at Pinjore,Haryana,on the 5 and 6th. Oct.2012,the Souvenir is ready and would be sent to all members,Schools,Colleges,Govt.Departments,NCC units and advertisers,promoters and contributors.

Major Sponsors were,Boeing Company U.S.A.,Cessna Aircraft and Wings India.

We now have over 240 members and over 35 Life Members, all over India ,growing every day.

Wings India meet at Amby Valley is Scheduled for Jan 24th, to 27th.2013,AMA members have been offered 30% discount on entry fee.

Pictures posted on our website :www.amai.in under -Events.

Must mention Mr.Kartik Shah of RC Dhamaka,who gave trophies to First and runner up in nine categories and was also present at the event and the evening prize giving and dinner hosted by Mr.More of wings India.

We had a very successful event at Pinjore,Haryana,on the 5 and 6th. Oct.2012,the Souvenir is ready and would be sent to all members,Schools,Colleges,Govt.Departments,NCC units and advertisers,promoters and contributors.

Major Sponsors were,Boeing Company U.S.A.,Cessna Aircraft and Wings India.

We now have over 240 members and over 35 Life Members, all over India ,growing every day.

Wings India meet at Amby Valley is Scheduled for Jan 24th, to 27th.2013,AMA members have been offered 30% discount on entry fee.

Pictures posted on our website :www.amai.in under -Events.

Must mention Mr.Kartik Shah of RC Dhamaka,who gave trophies to First and runner up in nine categories and was also present at the event and the evening prize giving and dinner hosted by Mr.More of wings India.

Aero Club has provided a limited number of models for training purpose,which are RTF with servos,engine installed,with 6EX Futaba R/C system on 2.4 Ghz.

These are being given to our members at different locations in India for training the new entrants. to the hobby.

A story we would like to share with fellow aeromodelers-Last year three boys came all the way from Bangalore to Pinjore to participate with self built models,two of their models crashed during trials and they were not figuring in the winners,while dropping them off to their hotel on Saturday we requested them to stay over and come for the prize distribution,which they reluctantly did,at the end of prize award ceremony we gifted the boys an ARF kit for a 0.46 size model in recoginition of their effort and interest in aeromodels and making it to Pinjore.They were thrilled and very happy to have stayed over-At AMA it is the recognition of the sport and effort and encouragement to excell in this hobby,we go the extra mile to encourage young participant while giving good opportunity to experts to share their knowledge with other particpants to provide healthy growth of the hobby.

At the renewal of our third party insurance we will now cover all flying fields in India without any increase in membership fees,all you have to do is inform us the location/google map of the field and it will added in our Insurance contract.

Provide details of the field to president@amai.in