The 2nd Edition of India Space Congress 2023 [ISC'23], 'Reimagining Space Sector for Empowering Socio-Economic Development' organised by SIA-India is going to be held from 10th to 12th July 2023 at Hyatt Regency, New Delhi. The congress aims to bring together leaders in the space industry to discuss ways to increase growth and development in India's rapidly expanding space sector.

The event holds special significance this year due to India's presidency of G20. The G20 SELM is being organized by ISRO from July 6-7 in Bangalore, and ISC 2023 happens immediately after the ensuing weekend. We expect larger international participation from agencies, institutions, industry, and academia from many countries this year. A copy of the brochure for ISC 2023 and the conference report for ISC 2022 are enclosed for your reference. Conference Report Link:
https://www.sia-india.com/isc-conference-report-2022/

For more details and to register pls visit: https://www.indiaspacecongress.com/register/

We also request all to follow:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/india-space-congress/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/space_congress?s=20 and
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sia-india7768/about pages for the latest updates.

We are delighted to announce Shri K Rajaraman, Chairman DCC & Secretary DOT, Ministry of Communication as a Special Guest of Honour at the 2nd edition India Space Congress [ISC-23].

Gallagher, a global leader in insurance, risk management and consulting services with partners in more than 130 countries. To know more: https://www.ajg.com/

SpaceLogistics, a Northrop Grumman company, is the global leader in the development and deployment of on-orbit satellite servicing systems and the first and only company performing on-orbit servicing for commercial satellites in geosynchronous orbit. To know more: https://www.northropgrumman.com/space/space-logistics-services/

SES, is the world's leading content connectivity provider. To know more: https://www.ses.com/

Experience Unique Partnership Opportunities at the India Space Congress 2023, where you can showcase your organization through speaking engagements, branding exposure, networking opportunities, and exhibition presence throughout the three-day conference-cum-expo. Please note that these partnership opportunities are limited and will be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis. Below, you will find general descriptions of the available options along with the associated deliverables.

Our team members are available to assist you in onboarding your organisation as a partner. To explore the available partnership opportunities, please visit our website: https://www.indiaspacecongress.com/partnership/

The allocation of spectrum is a critical issue for the government and regulatory bodies, and the choice of assignment mechanism should be based on careful consideration of the specific goals and priorities for the larger good. While an exclusive assignment through an auction-based approach may maximise revenue for the exchequer, it could lead to fragmentation resulting in a loss of satellite capacity. Moreover, such an approach may prevent rural/unconnected users, startups, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and various socioeconomic sectors such as disaster management, agriculture, healthcare, education, transportation, energy and others from accessing the necessary spectrum for their operations.

• Exclusive assignment through auction-based approach may lead to fragmentation and loss of satellite capacity, creating an anti-competitive environment and hindering access for rural/unconnected users, startups, MSMEs, and various socioeconomic sectors.
• Splitting up spectrum into multiple parts and exclusive blocks would limit access for innovative companies, result in limited choices, and sub-optimal spectrum usage.
• The public good doctrine and principles of international law support the non-exclusive assignment of satellite spectrum.
• The Supreme Court of India has clarified that auction is not a constitutional mandate for natural resource allocation, and methods other than auction can be used to allocate spectrum.
• Applying the same spectrum rules to both mobile operators and Indian VSAT satellite operators would be unfair due to the significant revenue disparity between the two and would be a violation of Article 14 of the Constitution of India, which calls for equal treatment of equals and unequal treatment of unequals.
• Satellite spectrum should be assigned through fair and transparent administrative processes to ensure shared and efficient use of the resource.
• Spectrum assignment decisions should consider factors like fair and equitable access, competition, and promoting the public interest, rather than solely focusing on revenue maximization.
• The Draft Telecommunications Bill 2022 permits spectrum allocation via different methods and should include all satellite services in its administrative allocation provisions.
• Spectrum assignment decisions should consider industry needs, frequency availability, and unique challenges to ensure fair and equitable treatment for all stakeholders.
• A stable regulatory and policy environment is crucial to support the growth of the space sector in India, enabling the benefits of space-based technologies and services in various sectors for socio-economic development.

Overall, the key highlights emphasize the need for a non-exclusive assignment approach for satellite spectrum. India's spectrum use must align with global practices and for the nascent satellite communications sector to have full and exclusive access to ITU-harmonized spectrum bands.

To read, please refer to the article available at: https://www.sia-india.com/why-satellite-spectrum-requires-non-exclusive-assignment-approach/

Rajeev Gambhir, Sr. Director - Technology & Policy, SIA-India, will moderate the panel discussion on "How is Video Distribution Changing to Support Linear, OTT, CTV, and FAST?" at the Satellite Industry Forum organized by AVIA. The panel will feature expert speakers Alistair Roseburgh, Director, Operations APAC, A+E Networks Asia, and Sanjay Duda, CEO, Planetcast Media Services. Additionally, Rajeev Gambhir will deliver a keynote address on "Indian Satellite Economy & Space Policy."

SIA-India, as an MRP to 3GPP, has been providing market advice to 3GPP and representing a consensus view of market requirements falling within the 3GPP scope. This enables the integration of satellites in the 3GPP ecosystem to enhance reachability and service continuity in unserved/underserved areas. SIA-India has previously conducted workshops and webinars to address the need for standardization, innovation, interoperability, and global harmonization.

SIA-India has been invited to participate in a stakeholder consultation on the Ethical 6G project, executed by Consumer Unity and Trust Society (CUTS) in collaboration with the Australian Risk Policy Institute (ARPI) and International Institute of Information Technology, Bangalore (IIITB). The project is supported by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) of the Australian Government. The consultation aims to foster cooperation and collaboration among researchers, businesses, and governments in India and Australia regarding the evolving critical telecommunication technologies, particularly 6G. It also seeks to enhance cyber resilience and promote good practices in critical technology development in India, Australia, and other Indo-Pacific countries. The project consists of four research components:

• Understanding 6G: Examining recent developments and challenges related to the ethical use of 6G.
• Strategic Issues in the Indo-Pacific: Analysing opportunities and challenges for India and Australia arising from 6G.
• Standard Making in 6G: Assessing the status of standardization in 6G and related issues, and exploring ways for increased involvement from India and Australia.
• Ethical Framework for 6G: Presenting and examining the elements of an ethical framework for the deployment and use of 6G technology.

SIA-India's key submission points focus on strategies to maximize the positive impact of 6G. These include:

• Collaboration and Partnerships: Encouraging collaboration among satellite operators, terrestrial network providers, industry stakeholders, and regulatory bodies to seamlessly integrate satellite technology into 6G networks.
• Customized Solutions for Vertical Sectors: Tailoring satellite integration in 6G to address specific challenges and opportunities in sectors such as healthcare, transportation, agriculture, manufacturing, and energy.
• Enhanced Coverage and Connectivity: Leveraging satellite technology to ensure reliable communication, data transfer, and access to advanced services in remote and rural areas where terrestrial networks may be limited.
• Support for IoT Deployments: Utilizing satellites to enable large-scale IoT deployments, overcoming limitations of spectrum availability and interference, and facilitating applications like smart agriculture and environmental monitoring.
• Focus on Critical Applications: Prioritizing critical applications, including emergency communications, remote sensing monitoring, and industrial automation, that can benefit from the wide coverage and global connectivity capabilities of satellites in 6G networks.
• Technological Advancements and Standardization: Promoting continued research and development in satellite technology, including innovations in systems, air interface design, spectrum allocation, and network management. Aligning satellite systems with standardized infrastructure technologies used in 5G and 6G.
• Regulatory and Policy Support: Urging governments and regulatory bodies to design policies and regulations that support the deployment of satellite systems, streamline spectrum allocation and licensing processes, and address regulatory barriers.
• Collaborative Efforts between Indian and Australian Institutions: Emphasizing the importance of research collaboration, spectrum harmonization, use case exploration, policy and standards development, testbeds and trials, as well as skill development and exchange to enhance the resilience and trustworthiness of the 6G ecosystem.

Furthermore, India and Australia can enhance their cooperation in the field of cyber and critical technologies, including 6G, through initiatives like the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA) and the India-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF). Provisions within ECTA can specifically address cyber and critical technologies, facilitating the reduction or elimination of tariffs on related goods and services. The IPEF platform can promote investment opportunities in cyber and critical technology, attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) in the sector and supporting the growth of indigenous capabilities.

SIA-India released its latest report titled "Industrialization of India's Space Capabilities" on May 12, 2023. This report covers the discussions and findings of the symposium and roundtable, which were conducted as a joint initiative between SIA-India and NIAS. The event took place on 10th March 2023 prior to the DefSAT 2023, India's first international defence and space conference & expo, held from April 27 to April 29, 2023. To explore the comprehensive insights presented in this report, please click on the following link: https://www.sia-india.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Industrialisation_SIA.pdf

Interstelllar_go provided extensive video coverage of the DefSAT 2023 Conference & Expo. Their coverage is divided into two parts and includes interviews with India's prominent strategic thinkers, military leaders, academics, innovators, and industrialists. To watch the full coverage, please click on the following links:

https://www.indianarrative.com/science-news/watch-experts-view-on-what-it-takes-to-ensure-indias-space-security-part-i-143271.html/amp
https://www.indianarrative.com/science-news/watch-experts-view-on-what-it-takes-to-ensure-indias-space-security-part-ii-143287.html/amp

The Indian Aerospace Defence News (IADN), Strategic Focus Volume 2 has featured the DefSAT Conference & Expo 2023. With its diverse range of sessions, panel discussions, and exhibitions, DefSAT Conference & Expo 2023 showcased India's growing prominence in the defence and space arena.

Click, to check out the Indian Aerospace Defence News (IADN), Strategic Focus Volume 2: https://iadnews.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/May-Issue-Final.pdf

SIA-INDIA is proud to collaborate as a strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific GeoIntelligence event organised by Geospatial World with the theme "Space Infrastructure and GeoINT Strategy: A Shared Vision"! It is taking place on June 6-7, 2023, at Vivanta, Dwarka, New Delhi, this event will bring together military, government security officials, experts from the space and geospatial domains, industry leaders, and academia.

With a galaxy of national and international speakers, this conference promises to be a platform for insightful discussions and exchanges on the role of space and geospatial technologies in maintaining global security.

Don't miss the opportunity to connect with key stakeholders and gain valuable insights into the latest advancements in the field. Save the date and join us for this impactful event!

For more information: https://geointelligence.net/2023/index.html
For registration: https://geointelligence.net/2023/express-registration/

In collaboration with Pacific Dataport, Inc. and Kratos Defense and Security Solutions, Astranis Space Technologies has successfully developed the revolutionary Aurora Network. This advanced communications system is set to transform connectivity in Alaska, offering unparalleled performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness for all residents of the region.

SIA-INDIA congratulates our member, Astranis Space Technologies, on their significant contribution in delivering a broadband solution to Alaska. We commend their steadfast commitment to advancing the satellite communications industry and providing cutting-edge solutions to meet the growing demands of our world.

On May 17, we joined the global community in celebrating World Telecommunication and Information Society Day (WTISD). This year's theme, "Empowering the least developed countries through information and communication technologies," reminds us of the transformative power of Information and communication technologies (ICTs) in bridging the digital divide.

At SIA-INDIA, we take pride in our commitment to bridging this divide and empowering marginalized communities by providing access to ICTs through space and satellite technologies. Our ambitious goal of connecting 100,000 individuals worldwide by 2025 reflects our dedication to making a tangible impact and improving lives.

Chairman ISRO/Secretary DoS, Shri Somanath S, inaugurated the Young Scientists Programme YUVIKA–2023 on May 15, 2023. A two-week residential program that brings together 352 talented high school students from across the country at 7 prestigious ISRO Centres i.e., VSSC Trivandrum, SAC Ahmedabad, URSC Bengaluru, SDSC Sriharikota, NRSC Hyderabad, IIRS Dehradun and NE-SAC Shillong.

The Young Scientists Programme YUVIKA–2023 promises to be an incredible platform for talented individuals to expand their knowledge, ignite their curiosity, and forge lifelong connections with like-minded peers. It is a remarkable initiative aligned with the National Education Policy – 2020, aiming to nurture young minds and foster their interest in STEM, with a special emphasis on Space Science and Technology.

For complete information about the programme, please refer to the official website: https://www.isro.gov.in/YUVIKA.html

IN-SPACe has launched AGNIRVA, a space community-building platform that aims to connect and engage space enthusiasts from around the world. This unique initiative will foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and the exploration of space dreams.

The response to AGNIRVA has been overwhelming, with over 100 registrations within the first 24 hours of its release. This tremendous enthusiasm is a testament to the growing interest in space exploration and the need for a platform that brings like-minded individuals together.

Visit: https://www.agnirva.com/ and sign up to unlock a world of opportunities.

Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), the Ministry of Defence's flagship initiative, has reached a significant accomplishment with the signing of its 250th contract. This includes the first contract under Mission DefSpace and the 100th SPRINT (Navy) contract, signed in New Delhi on May 15, 2023.

The inaugural iDEX contract for Mission DefSpace was exchanged between Additional Secretary (Defence Production) & CEO of Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO), Shri T Natarajan, and CEO of InspeCity, Shri Arindrajit Chowdhary, who was one of the winners of the challenge 'Micropropulsion system for CubeSats.' This challenge is led by the Defence Space Agency. The contracts were signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane and other senior civil and military officials.

The Centre for Space Science and Technology Education in Asia and the Pacific is conducting a short-term Course on 'Remote Sensing Data Processing', to be conducted in October 2023 and another a short-term Course on 'Remote Sensing Data Acquisition' from August 21 to September 01, 2023 at the National Remote Sensing Centre, ISRO.

Applications for the course are accepted exclusively through online mode.
To apply, please visit www.cssteap.org or
click the following link: https://admissions.cssteap.org/login

For complete information about the course, including the Syllabus overview, eligibility criteria, and other essential details, please refer to the official announcement brochure available at:
Remote Sensing Data Processing:
https://www.cssteap.org/upload/announcement/UNCSSTEAP-ShortcourseonDataprocessing_Final.pdf
Remote Sensing Data Acquisition:
https://www.cssteap.org/upload/announcement/UNCSSTEAP-ShortcourseonDataacquisition_Final.pdf

Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology, Delhi (IIIT-D) is inviting applications for a JRF/PhD position in the field of Multi-sensor Data Fusion and Orbit Determination.

To apply and learn more about the position, please visit the document:
https://iiitd.ac.in/sites/default/files/docs/positions/2023/Advertisement_Respond2023_PhD%20(2).pdf

Website: https://www.bharucha.in/

"The Indian Space Policy 2023 is intended to promote private sector participation in end-to-end space activities, and the provision to engage in activities through leased or self-owned satellite systems could encourage increased participation of startups in the space sector. The delineation of the roles and responsibilities of the ISRO, NSIL and IN-SPACe is likely to enable stakeholder participation re R&D, commercialization, and regulation in the space sector. The transition of ISRO to a purely R&D organization which assists entities in the space sector and IN-SPACe's role as a regulator which promotes business will further strengthen the business ecosystem in the space sector."

Website: https://www.hughes.in/

"Hughes acknowledges the Indian Space Policy 2023 towards promoting satellite technology by allowing open skies, open environment (FDI), NGSOs to come in. However, it is crucial to address the concerns surrounding lack of clearly defined rules in areas such as spectrum allocation, foreign direct investment and orbital slot allocation. Well-defined guidelines in these domains are essential for fostering a stable and conducive business environment. We are committed to working closely with the government and other stakeholders to address these concerns and unlock the full potential of satellite technology, foster growth and ensure a robust and inclusive ecosystem for the benefit of all stakeholders."

SC Ahluwalia
Former Dy Director General, DOT
Sr Consultant (Satellite / Radio)

"It is really good that a 'New Indian Space Policy 2023' has been announced by Government of India after a long waiting period of about 23 Years. The new policy opens up the Space sector for commercial utilization of the space-based services. Efforts have been made to provide a level playing field for provision of end to end (Space objects / Satellites , Ground stations , User terminals etc) space based services by Government / PSUs / NGEs agencies. An autonomous Government Organization 'IN-SPACe' has been set up to encourage , facilitate, authorize , regulate all types of Space-based service by various organizations ( Government entities or NGE) in India. The roles of ISRO has also been defined as 'National Space agency' which shall focus on R&D , new technologies , Man mission , hand holding for start ups etc. Much will depend upon the detailed guidelines to be issued by 'IN-SPACe' for streamlining the process Authorizations of various proposals which are likely to be received from NGEs for provision of various space-based activities. Most of the authorizations should be made on-Line so that human intervention is minimum. Single window concept must be implemented in letter and sprit so that time bound permissions / authorizations are delivered to the prospective agencies / Users."