Daily Hot Topic

Topic : India’s Space Ambitions: A Public-Private Partnership

GS-3 Mains : Science and Technology

Revision Notes

Taking Flight

• India’s space sector is set for a boom with the government opening doors for private companies (2024).
• This aims to boost the sector’s value from $9.6 billion (2020) to $13 billion by 2025, capturing 10% of the global market ($360 billion) by 2030.

ISRO’s New Role

• ISRO, traditionally the sole operator, is transitioning into a facilitator role.
• This involves sharing technology and expertise, providing infrastructure access, and supporting private firms.

Benefits of Private Participation

• Increased innovation and competition, like Skyroot Aerospace’s achievements.
• More foreign investment (FDI) for global collaborations and enhanced global standing in space technology.
• National development through improved communication (remote areas), disaster management, and climate monitoring.
• Cost-competitive space program and job creation across various sectors.

Challenges to Address

• Regulatory hurdles.
• Complexities of technology transfer.
• Need for a skilled workforce.

Boosting Private Investment

• Feb 2024: Increased FDI allowance –
  • 74% for satellite manufacturing & operation
  • 49% for launch vehicles & spaceports
  • 100% for satellite components/sub-systems
• Investment in Space Startups reached $124.7 Million in 2023.

Enhancing Regulatory Framework

• Established Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) in 2020 to facilitate private entry.
• Feb 2021: Relaxed geospatial data access for private companies.
• Dec 2022: National Geospatial Policy promotes data sharing and a robust geospatial ecosystem.
• Indian Space Policy 2023: Defines roles and responsibilities for ISRO, NSIL and private entities.

Conclusion

• Increased private participation has the potential to unlock India’s potential in space exploration.
• Supportive government policies and ISRO’s collaboration are crucial for success.
• Addressing existing challenges will be vital for long-term growth.

Source : https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Kochi/private-sector-has-huge-possibilities-in-countrys-space-arena-isro-chairman/article68164777.ece