Private Sector Space Investment Surpasses $600 Million in Five Years, Says Dr. Jitendra Singh

by

Ganpat Singh Chouhan

Private Sector Space Investment Surpasses $600 Million in Five Years, Says Dr. Jitendra Singh

New Delhi, April 26: Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge), announced on Sunday that private sector space investment in India has exceeded $600 million over the past five years. This statement was made during a review of plans to establish space laboratories across universities and colleges nationwide.

In the first phase of this initiative, seven laboratories will be set up to provide students with practical experience in satellite systems, rocketry, and mission design.

The review followed a detailed presentation by Dr. Pawan Goenka, Chairman of IN-SPACe, who provided insights into the progress of India’s space reforms and the increasing participation of private players in the value chain.

India’s private space ecosystem has rapidly evolved, with the number of startups rising from single digits in 2019 to over 400 by early 2026. These startups are now actively involved in launch vehicles, satellite and payload manufacturing, ground infrastructure, data services, and emerging in-orbit sectors.

To sustain this momentum, several targeted initiatives have been launched. A venture capital fund of ₹1,000 crores is being established in collaboration with SIDBI to support startups in their development stages. Additionally, a ₹500 crore Technology Adoption Fund is assisting early-stage innovations in transforming into commercially viable products. Under the Seed Fund scheme, startups are eligible for grants up to ₹1 crore, along with guidance and ecosystem support during the idea and prototype phases.

According to the Space Department of the central government, efforts to develop a skilled workforce are ongoing. Seventeen specialized training programs have been completed, certifying nearly 900 participants in areas such as satellite manufacturing, launch vehicle systems, and space cybersecurity.

India’s global participation in the space sector is continuously strengthening, with partnerships now extending to over 45 countries. Recent collaborations include agreements with Singapore and the United Arab Emirates, participation of Indian companies in international space forums, and initiatives to connect domestic startups with global markets.

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