Isro chief calls on big Indian companies to invest in space infrastructure

NEW DELHI: Pushing for big investments in the space sector, Isro chairman S Somanath on Tuesday called on major industries to invest in space infrastructure and manufacturing, emphasising the need to build leading space companies in the country.

Speaking at the Indian Space Conclave 3.0 in the presence of space minister Jitendra Singh, the Isro chairman said while India has done well in the downstream sector with a focus on space applications, the country still lags in the upstream segment, which focuses on manufacturing of space hardware, propulsion systems, and space exploration.

“The challenges in the upstream side, building big platforms, building rockets and launching them, remains very elusive primarily because of the higher investment required, the technology risks, and the possibility of failures and recovery,” he said.

Asking major industries to invest in upstream space infrastructure, Somanath said, “India is not void of any big houses having enough capability to invest and create as much as others are there in the world. But they need to take the plunge, possibly alone or in a very cooperative mode with others where there are skills in various areas.”

The Isro chief said, “India's Vision 2047 marks a historic, long-term commitment to transforming our space programme and expanding our space economy. Under strong govt leadership, we've moved from announcements to concrete projects, defining a future where space drives economic growth, national security and technological innovation.”

“We have almost 450 companies that now contribute to our capabilities in launching and building satellites, but realising our vision requires new players, inspired young talent, and a thriving startup ecosystem,” he said. “With strategic partnerships and a united vision, we are poised to make India a leader in space innovation, ensuring a vibrant, self-reliant space sector for decades to come," Somanath added.

“With policies that enhance data accessibility, we're enabling space-based applications to support sectors like agriculture and finance, aiming to create a robust, multifaceted space ecosystem,” the Isro chief said.
Somanath said India’s goal of landing an Indian on the Moon by 2040 underscored its dedication to human space exploration and served as a powerful inspiration for the next generation.

“This mission not only expands our technical prowess but also fosters growth across high-tech industries like electronics and bio-pharmaceuticals. To achieve this, large-scale investment from both the government and private sector is essential, signalling India's readiness to be a globally competitive, independent force in space,” he stressed.