Registration for Basant 2027 kite manufacturers opens in Lahore

Registration for kite manufacturers and producers of kite-flying material for Basant 2027 opened in Lahore on Saturday as the district administration began the process of regulating production months ahead of the festival.

Manufacturers are required to register through the dedicated Basant 2027 portal and obtain a no-objection certificate (NOC) before beginning production. The administration plans to inspect manufacturing sites and monitor production to ensure prohibited material does not enter the market.

For now, registration is limited to manufacturers. Registration for kite sellers, traders and associations is expected to open in January or February next year, with the administration to announce the dates later.

Strict rules for kite material

Lahore Deputy Commissioner retired Capt Muhammad Ali Ijaz said only kites of approved sizes and cotton string would be allowed for the festival.

The administration has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards chemical-coated string and metallic wire. Permitted cotton thread and string, commonly known as pinna, will have to meet prescribed specifications.

Special district administration teams are expected to inspect production facilities and monitor manufacturing to ensure that only approved kites and materials are produced and supplied.

Basant 2027 is scheduled to be held in Lahore from March 12 to 14.

Earlier revival of Basant

The registration drive comes after Lahore hosted Basant from February 6 to 8 this year, marking the festival’s return after an 18-year ban.

The Punjab government allowed kite flying under the Punjab Regulation of Kite Flying Act, 2025, after the Punjab Assembly passed the legislation in December 2025. The revival was initially restricted to Lahore and was presented as a pilot exercise.

The 2026 festival was held under extensive safety measures, including the division of Lahore into risk zones, police and district administration deployments, rooftop monitoring and surveillance through Safe City cameras and drones. Authorities also coordinated with Rescue 1122 and the power utility and imposed restrictions aimed at reducing the risk of accidents involving kite string.

The administration had also registered manufacturers, sellers and traders ahead of this year’s festival.

Opening the registration process for manufacturers in September gives authorities several months to vet producers, inspect production sites and establish a controlled supply chain before kite flying resumes in March.