New Delhi, August 23: India’s space economy has reached $9 billion, with projections estimating it could grow to $40-45 billion over the next decade. This growth is attributed to a robust startup ecosystem and policy reforms, according to recent government data.
On Sunday, India celebrated National Space Day, marking the rapid expansion of the country’s space ecosystem. The number of registered space startups has surged to approximately 440 as of August this year, up from just one in 2014.
Private investment in India’s space sector has increased nearly sixfold, rising from $100.5 million in the fiscal year 2021-22 to an anticipated $618.5 million by March 31, 2026. So far in 2026, investments have already reached $187 million.
Official figures indicate that by mid-2026, 52 non-government entities (NGEs) have received 113 authorizations, including 18 startups permitted to operate satellites, establish payloads, and provide launch services.
In 2020, India opened its space sector to private participation, facilitating involvement from industries and startups in satellite operations, launch systems, and space applications. This move is seen as a significant shift towards a comprehensive national space ecosystem.
According to an official statement, the Indian Space Policy 2023 further enhances private participation across the entire value chain of the space sector. The policy clarifies the roles and responsibilities of NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) and the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (In-Space).
NSIL, ISRO’s commercial arm, provides launch, satellite, and space-based services while transferring ISRO’s technologies to Indian industries. NSIL’s revenue has increased from ₹321.77 crore in the fiscal year 2021-22 to over ₹3,000 crore by 2024-25, reflecting the growing commercialization of India’s space program.
In-Space enables private space activities through a single-window system, assisting industries and startups in transferring 71 ISRO technologies by January 31, 2026.
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ABS
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