In a landmark move, SIA-India and the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) have signed an MoU to integrate space-tech products, geospatial data, and services into government procurement. This aligns with the Union Budget 2025’s Rs 100 crore outlay for the National Geospatial Mission to enhance India's Geospatial capabilities. This partnership will accelerate the adoption of geospatial solutions across government agencies, enhancing efficiency and data-driven governance. With India’s geospatial market projected to grow from approx $3.3 billion in 2025 to $7.59 billion by 2030, integrating space-tech procurement into GeM ensures transparency, accessibility, and cost efficiency while empowering MSMEs and startups. This collaboration marks a crucial step toward unlocking India's space economy and digital transformation.

“GeM, will broaden its bouquet of specialised services with the inclusion of spaceborne platforms like satellites for remote sensing applications in addition to drones and in-situ data devices. This initiative will drive economic growth and position GeM as an innovation hub for this sector.”— Ajit B Chavan, Additional CEO, Government e-Marketplace, Ministry of Commerce and Industry

The Union Budget 2025 aligns closely with SIA-India’s vision for advancing India's space sector through increased private sector participation, deep-tech investments, and digital inclusion. SIA-India had emphasized the need for enhanced budgetary allocations, policy reforms, and strategic incentives to boost India’s position in the global space economy. The budget’s ₹20,000 crore investment in private-sector-led research and innovation, along with the establishment of a Deep Tech Fund, directly supports this vision, fostering innovation in AI, space technology, and emerging sectors.

A key highlight of SIA-India’s pre-budget recommendations was bridging the digital divide through satellite communications. The government’s commitment to expanding broadband connectivity in rural areas under BharatNet reflects this priority, ensuring enhanced education, healthcare, and e-commerce access. Similarly, the National Geospatial Mission, leveraging satellite technology for urban planning and disaster management, aligns with SIA-India’s push for utilizing space-based solutions for national development.

With ₹10,000 crore for startups, an export promotion mission, and the Startup India Innovation Challenge, the budget supports MSMEs and space-tech startups—key drivers of India’s future space economy. SIA-India welcomes these initiatives, reinforcing India’s global leadership in next-generation technologies.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully conducted an ignition trial of the indigenous CE20 cryogenic engine, which powers the upper stage of the LVM3 launch vehicle, under vacuum conditions. This test, performed at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu, simulated space-like conditions to validate the engine's performance for the Gaganyaan mission, India's first crewed space endeavor. The CE20 engine, developed by ISRO's Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre, is now qualified to operate at thrust levels ranging from 19 to 22 tonnes, marking a significant milestone in advancing India's space technology capabilities.

TakeMe2Space, is transforming the way the world engages with space technology. By launching India’s first AI-driven space lab, the company is revolutionizing satellite operations and making them accessible in real-time to a wider audience, including students, researchers, and businesses.

Traditionally, satellite operations have been restricted to governments, defense agencies, and elite research institutions. However, TakeMe2Space’s innovative approach allows users to interact with satellites remotely, much like accessing a cloud service. Students can now log in, upload their code, and directly operate real satellites. Through the platform’s AI capabilities, they can process images in orbit, optimize satellite performance, and overcome the limitations of traditional space technology.

This initiative marks a significant milestone in space education and technology, providing unprecedented access to satellite operations for educational institutions and businesses. TakeMe2Space is not only enhancing the learning experience but is also positioning India as a key player in the global space tech industry, alongside countries like the USA and China.

Following the success of PRISM 1.0, SIA-India, in collaboration with the Space Industry Association of Australia (SIAA), is set to host PRISM 2.0: Unlocking Trade Potentials in India-Australia Space Collaboration. This webinar aims to address regulatory challenges, identify trade opportunities, and foster stronger bilateral cooperation between the two nations in the space sector.

India and Australia have been actively enhancing their space collaboration, particularly after signing the India-Australia Framework Arrangement on Space Cooperation. PRISM 2.0 will bring together key stakeholders, policymakers, industry leaders, and experts to discuss the regulatory landscape and the pathways to strengthening trade and investment in space technologies, satellite communications, Earth observation, and deep-space missions. Key topics of discussion include Regulatory barriers, Opportunities for investment, Policy frameworks, Strategic initiatives

Event Details:

📅 Date: 20 February 2025

⏰ Time: 3:30 PM AEST / 10:00 AM IST

🔗 Registration Link: https://events.humanitix.com/p-r-i-s-m-series

On 6 February 2025, SIA-India participated in the Thinking Workshop, a strategic roundtable fostering Indo-Dutch collaboration in the commercial space sector. The session focused on developing a roadmap for international cooperation, addressing industry partnerships, research, and technology development.

SIA-India’s leadership, represented by Mr. Anil Prakash, DG, and Mr. Rajeev Gambhir, DDG, engaged with key stakeholders, including IN-SPACe, NSO, the Netherlands Embassy, and CII. The event, curated by Cosmic Sandbox (APOSA), reinforced shared priorities in space innovation, policy alignment, and market expansion, strengthening the foundation for future partnerships between India and the Netherlands in the global space economy.

We are pleased to announce the return of the India Space Congress 2025, scheduled from 25th-27th June 2025 at the Le Meridien New Delhi, India. This prestigious event will unite global leaders, innovators, and visionaries from the space industry. It will provide a unique platform to explore the latest advancements, discuss emerging industry trends, and collaborate with key stakeholders. Whether you’re a space industry professional or simply passionate about space exploration, the India Space Congress is the event to engage with the brightest minds in the field.

SIA-India congratulates the National Institute of Technology Calicut (NITC) on inaugurating the Centre for Space Science & Technology, supported by distinguished alumnus Dr. Subba Rao Pavuluri, Chairman & MD, Ananth Technologies, and President , SIA-India. This centre will drive innovation and collaboration in space research.

Additionally, the approval of the ISRO-NITC Centre of Excellence for Student Satellites marks a significant milestone, enabling advancements in satellite design, payload development, and ground systems. We commend Dr. S. Somanath, Prof. Prasad Krishna, Dr. Subba Rao Pavuluri, and Shri J. A. Kamalakar for their efforts in realizing this initiative.

Anil Prakash, Director General, SIA-India, engaged in a productive discussion with Hon’ble Joe Szakacs MP, Minister of Trade and Investment, Government of South Australia, at a reception hosted by the Australian High Commissioner. The meeting focused on strengthening India-Australia space sector collaboration, with an emphasis on partnerships with South Australia.

Additionally, SIA-India maintains a strong collaboration with the Government of Western Australia, reinforcing industry-to-industry engagement and fostering bilateral cooperation in space research, technology exchange, and commercial opportunities.

SIA-India participated in the Aero India 2025, held from 10th-14th February 2025 at Air Force Station, Yelahanka, Bengaluru. Our Presence was marked by Director General Mr Anil Prakash, and DY Director General Mr Rajeev Gambhir during the event.

 

Day 01: On Day 1, SIA-India leadership had insightful discussions with industry giants like Anagh Technology, Centum Electronics Ltd., Azista BST Aerospace, Hical Technologies Pvt Ltd, Data Patterns (India) Limited, Airbus Defence and Space, Thales Alenia Space, IAI - Israel Aerospace Industries, and many more to discuss SIA-India 's initiative and the upcoming India Space Congress!  

 

Day 02: The day 02 was marked by insightful discussions with industry pioneers shaping India's space sector. They engaged with key stakeholders, including Laxmi Machine Works, along with leading space-tech players such as Agnikul Cosmos, Skyroot Aerospace, TASL (Tata Advanced Systems Ltd.), and Pixxel.

SIA-India engaged in a high-level discussion with Karnataka’s IT & Biotechnology Minister, Mr. Priyank M Kharge, and Secretary, Dr. Ekroop Caur. The dialogue focused on Karnataka’s ambitious vision to command 50% of India’s space market and secure 5% of the global space economy. Key industry takeaways included policy advocacy, public-private collaboration, and leveraging space-tech for digital transformation. With a robust innovation ecosystem, Karnataka aims to position itself as a global hub for satellite technology, manufacturing, and aerospace advancements.

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Day 03: On Day 3 of Aero India 2025, We engaged in strategic discussions with key industry leaders, including Mr. M.V. Reddy (Astra Microwave Pvt Ltd) and representatives from Safran Data Systems India Ltd. These dialogues focused on aligning emerging technologies with future defense and space requirements, reinforcing India's commitment to Atmanirbhar Bharat. As India advances its space capabilities, the upcoming India Space Congress 2025, scheduled from 25 to 27 June in New Delhi, will serve as a vital forum to shape industry collaboration and innovation

SIA-India leadership headed by Dr Subbarao Pavuluri, President SIA-India alongwith Mr Anil Prakash, Director General, Mr DS Govindrajan, Board Member, Mr Rajeev Gambhir, Dy Director General, SIA-India had the privilege of meeting Dr. Narayanan, Chairman, ISRO, at ISRO Headquarters, Bengaluru. This discussion reaffirmed the shared commitment of ISRO and the Indian space industry to fostering innovation, collaboration, and global leadership in space. Key focus areas included strengthening public-private partnerships, advancing next-generation space technologies, and enhancing industry-government collaboration for policy reforms and investment. With ISRO’s guidance, SIA-India remains dedicated to supporting India’s space ambitions. The DefSat 2025 and India Space Congress 2025 will serve as critical platforms to drive strategic dialogues and industry growth.

Mr Anil Prakash
Director General, SIA-India

The Union Budget 2025-26 allocates Rs 13,416.20 crore to Department of Space, driving forward ambitious space exploration and satellite development initiatives. Key industry reactions highlight growth in private sector involvement, geospatial infrastructure, and AI integration.

India will launch the Chandrayaan-4 mission to bring back samples of moon rocks to the Earth in 2027, Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh said.

NASA announced on Thursday that Shubhanshu Shukla, group captain in the Indian Air Force (IAF), has been chosen to fly Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4). He will be the first Indian astronaut to reach the International Space Station (ISS) on a private mission.