India has adopted a leapfrogging approach in the space sector by leveraging available technology to solve immediate problems while simultaneously building long-term capabilities, said Dr A S Kiran Kumar, Member, Space Commission and Former Chairman, ISRO. He said that this will position the country as a leader in the global space economy.
Speaking at the FICCI Bharat Space Conclave, Dr Kumar said, “Today, ISRO stands among the world's top five space agencies. Once India's human spaceflight program becomes fully operational, the country will join an elite group of just four nations with such a capability.”
He also emphasised the remarkable space journey of India that started with minimal resources and basic necessities and now counted among the leading nations in the sector.
“Over time, India has made remarkable progress in indigenous space technology. The country now boasts four versions of launch vehicles that have delivered outstanding results. Despite attempts by global superpowers to withhold critical technology, India turned this adversity into an opportunity by developing its own cryogenic technology. This breakthrough will also be a cornerstone of India’s human spaceflight program,” he said.
Former ISRO Chairman also underlined the role of the government to provide sufficient economic liberalisation and entrance of private entities into the sector, which will further accelerate the pace of development of the Indian space sector.
“Recognizing this shift, the Indian government took proactive steps to integrate private players into the space economy. While nation-states developed space programs, private entrepreneurs also recognized the economic potential of space. Institutions like IN-SPACe were established to facilitate and empower Indian entrepreneurs,” he added.
The space-tech startups are not many but growing in significant numbers. According to the government data, Space StartUps have increased from 1 in 2022 to nearly 200 in 2024, witnessing an unprecedented rise of 200 times in these years. In the year 2023 alone, nearly Rs 1000 crore was invested in the space sector of India in just about eight months.
Today, ISRO stands among the world's top five space agencies. Once India's human spaceflight program becomes fully operational, the country will join an elite group of just four nations with such a capability.
As per Former ISRO Chairman, once India's human spaceflight program becomes fully operational, the country will join an elite group of just four nations with such a capability.
“India is positioning itself as a major player in the global space economy, ensuring that its advancements not only serve national interests but also drive innovation on a global scale,” Dr Kiran Kumar concluded.
