How Much Investment Have Indian Space Startups Attracted?
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Synopsis
Indian space startups have secured a remarkable $430 million in investments, showcasing the thriving landscape of private sector participation in India's space industry. Union Minister Jitendra Singh emphasizes the government's role in facilitating this growth through supportive reforms and technological transfers.
Key Takeaways
- Indian space startups have garnered a total investment of $430 million.
- The government is actively promoting private sector participation in the space industry.
- IN-SPACe facilitates technology transfers and supports non-governmental entities.
- Upcoming satellite missions include NISAR, Oceansat-3A, GSAT-7R, and others.
- India has space cooperation agreements with 61 countries.
New Delhi, Aug 2 (NationPress) Indian space startups have attracted an impressive $430 million in investments up until March of this year, according to Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh. He made this announcement in Parliament, highlighting the fruitful outcome of opening the space sector to private participation.
In a written response delivered in the Rajya Sabha, Singh elaborated on the active involvement of private industries in the space domain.
“The government has rolled out reforms in the space sector, encouraging private entities to engage in both commercial ventures and scientific research,” Singh stated.
“By March 2025, a cumulative investment of $430 million has been recorded in Indian space startups,” he continued.
To enhance private sector engagement in the space industry, the government established the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) in June 2020, functioning as an autonomous body under the Department of Space (DoS) in India.
According to Singh, IN-SPACe has so far enabled the transfer of 93 technologies developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
“Based on the data from the IN-SPACe Digital platform, over 400 non-governmental entities (NGEs) have submitted more than 650 proposals for various support activities including facilitation, mentorship, technology transfer, and authorization,” Singh said.
“To date, IN-SPACe has facilitated the transfer of 93 ISRO technologies to NGEs. These initiatives are driving all NGEs to create innovative space technologies and generating significant investment,” he added.
IN-SPACe serves as a one-stop facilitator for non-governmental entities involved in numerous space activities, such as developing launch vehicles and satellites, offering space-based services, and sharing space infrastructure.
Additionally, the Minister announced plans for major satellite missions scheduled for later this year, extending to March 2026.
This includes the recently launched NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) satellite. Other missions on the list are Oceansat-3A, GSAT-7R, NVS-03, and TDS-01.
Singh also shared information about ISRO's collaborative satellite missions with various space agencies, including a proposed G20 Satellite Mission focused on Environment and Climate Observation, the LuPEX/Chandrayaan-5 lunar mission in partnership with Japan’s space agency JAXA, and the Venus Orbiter Mission with Russia and Sweden.
“India currently maintains space cooperation agreements with 61 countries and five multilateral organizations. ISRO has engaged in joint satellite missions, hosted foreign payloads, established overseas ground stations, and participated in collaborative experiments and data sharing,” the Minister stated.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the significance of India's evolving space sector. The substantial investment in startups marks a pivotal shift towards innovation and collaboration, aligning with national interests and global partnerships in space exploration. The government's proactive approach in fostering private participation is commendable, which not only enhances technological advancements but also strengthens India's position in the global space community.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total investment received by Indian space startups?
Indian space startups have received a total investment of $430 million as of March this year.
What role does IN-SPACe play in the Indian space sector?
IN-SPACe acts as a single-window facilitator for non-governmental entities engaged in various space activities, promoting technology transfer and innovative projects.
What upcoming satellite missions were announced?
Upcoming satellite missions include the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) satellite, Oceansat-3A, GSAT-7R, NVS-03, and TDS-01.
How many countries does India have space cooperation agreements with?
India currently has space cooperation agreements with 61 countries and five multilateral organizations.
When was IN-SPACe established?
IN-SPACe was established in June 2020 as an autonomous agency under the Department of Space.
