Space Sector Reforms Aim To Make India Self-Reliant And Technologically Stronger: Prime Minister Narendra Modi
India’s space sector reforms are aimed at strengthening self-reliance and technological capabilities, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said while highlighting changes introduced in 2020 to expand opportunities for private companies.
The reforms formed part of the initiatives approved by the Union Cabinet in June 2020, with public welfare as a key objective. Modi said the measures were part of India’s long-term goal of becoming more self-reliant and technologically stronger.
IN-SPACe Opens Opportunities For Private Companies
As part of the reforms, the government established the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre, known as IN-SPACe.
The organisation is responsible for providing private companies with equal opportunities to use India’s space infrastructure. It also offers guidance to companies seeking to participate in the country’s space sector.
The reforms were designed to expand private-sector participation while supporting the wider development of India’s space capabilities.
Skyroot Aerospace Marks Private-Sector Milestone
Hyderabad-based Skyroot Aerospace is an example of the private companies that have emerged alongside the reforms.
Founded in 2018 by former ISRO scientists Pawan Kumar Chandana and Naga Bharath, the company made history in 2022 by launching India’s first private rocket, Vikram-S.
The company has since continued developing its launch capabilities. Modi recently virtually inaugurated Skyroot Aerospace’s Infinity Campus in Hyderabad and unveiled its first orbital rocket, Vikram-1.
Reforms Support Company Growth
Skyroot Aerospace’s Vice President of Branding, Marketing and Communications, Tejaswi Bhagavatula, said the reforms have been useful to the company’s growth and operations.
The experience of Skyroot highlights the role of private companies in India’s evolving space sector. Meanwhile, the government’s reforms have sought to provide private firms with access to national space infrastructure and greater opportunities to participate in the industry.