The countdown to DefSat 2025 has begun! As the defence and space sectors brace for a decade of double-digit growth, the integration of space into defence has become the new frontier to watch. Join us for the 3rd edition of DefSat from January 8–10, 2025, where industry leaders, government officials, and defence leadership will converge to shape the future of space-driven defence. Highlights include captivating thematic sessions, exclusive B2B matchmaking between defence officials and private companies, an immersive cybersecurity workshop, and a thrilling hackathon challenge.

In a landmark move for India’s space industry, T-Hub, the world’s largest innovation campus, has officially signed an MoU with SIA-India. This partnership promises to turbocharge innovation, bringing together T-Hub’s vast network of startups, researchers, and industry leaders with SIA-India’s expertise in space sector. Dr. Subba Rao Pavuluri, president of SIA-India, joined T-Hub to formalize this strategic partnership, which promotes interdisciplinary collaboration among startups and researchers to develop cutting-edge space solutions.

With a track record of empowering 2,000+ startups, T-Hub remains committed to fostering innovation through initiatives like the Maitri Program, which supports foreign startups with government subsidies under the PLI scheme. This collaboration opens doors for stakeholders across space, defense, and government to engage in groundbreaking projects, propelling India into a new era of space leadership and innovation.

Dr. Subba Rao Pavuluri further added “By creating a conducive ecosystem for space tech start-ups, this MoU bridges the critical gap between innovation and industry access. Such an environment is essential for nurturing breakthrough technologies, fostering collaboration, and driving India’s space sector toward global leadership. With this partnership, we are ensuring that the next generation of space entrepreneurs has the tools and opportunities to thrive”.

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the establishment of a ₹1,000 crore Venture Capital Fund dedicated to advancing India’s space sector under IN-SPACe. Set to operate over five years, the fund aims to invest ₹150-250 crore annually, supporting approximately 40 startups with investments ranging from ₹10 to ₹60 crore based on their growth stage. This strategic initiative will enhance innovation, retain companies within India, and drive economic growth, potentially creating thousands of employment opportunities across various sectors. The fund is designated as a 'scale-up' or growth stage fund, addressing a critical funding gap in this phase. By addressing the capital needs of startups, this fund will position India as a leading global space economy

Join TRAI for an Open House Discussion (OHD) regarding the Consultation Paper on the Terms and Conditions for the Assignment of Spectrum for Certain Satellite-Based Commercial Communication Services. The upcoming Open House Discussion (OHD) will take place on November 8, 2024, at 10:00 AM. Participants can join the session online via video conferencing. This session aims to gather insights and feedback from stakeholders to inform the ongoing development of policies in this critical area. We encourage participation from all interested parties to engage in this important dialogue.

The U.S. Department of Commerce has announced significant changes to export control regulations for space technologies, aiming to enhance American competitiveness in the global space sector. Notably, many space-related items will be reclassified as commercial products, moving commercial satellites from the U.S. Munitions List to the more flexible Commerce Control List.

The issue of ITAR has been highlighted in an industry survey conducted by SIA-India, as ITAR restrictions have been seen as a barrier to the development of space cooperation between the two countries. The recent relaxation represents an exciting opportunity to strengthen the bilateral relationship between the two countries. SIA-India has partnered with the U.S.-India Business Council (USIBC) to advocate for more streamlined processes. Similarly, the first event of the PRISM Webinar Series will effectively discuss ways to navigate these export controls and foster innovation.

SIA-India is thrilled to announce the first session of the PRISM 2024 Webinar Series in partnership with the IndUS Tech Council. Titled "US-India Export Control Dialogue: Bridging Innovation," this inaugural webinar delves into the critical challenges facing Indian industry as it navigates U.S. ITAR regulations in its efforts to export high-tech defence and space products. This session is particularly timely, as it builds on recent developments in U.S. export control policies that explore the significant ITAR relaxation enabling U.S. companies to more freely collaborate with trusted allies, including India. Join us as we explore the real-world implications and practical solutions for Indian exporters under these evolving regulations. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain critical insights from industry experts and policymakers!

ISRO's Space Docking Experiment (SPADEX) represents a critical advancement in India's autonomous docking technology, essential for the nation's ambitious space exploration goals. The mission involves two satellites, 'Chaser' and 'Target,' which will autonomously connect in orbit, simulating future operations like assembling space stations and refueling. This experiment is pivotal for manned spaceflight, satellite maintenance, and constructing a space station. Ananth Technologies has played a key role by integrating and assembling the satellites, marking a significant collaboration between ISRO and private industry. As India accelerates its space initiatives, mastering docking technology is vital for upcoming missions, including the Gaganyaan project.

SIA-India participated in IN-SPACe’s 2nd Space Application Adoption Workshop (SAAW) on Agriculture & Food Processing, which brought together central and state government leaders with industry stakeholders to boost the use of space data. SIA-India applauds this initiative for raising awareness of space data products and highlighting practical challenges in adoption, facilitating direct interaction between end-users and solution providers. Earth Observation companies showcased innovative agri-tech solutions, demonstrating the role of space data in addressing real-world challenges. The workshop offered in-depth insights from both seekers and solution providers. Moderated by Air Vice Marshal Dhananjay Khot (Retd), the session underscored space data’s transformative impact on agriculture and food security. More sector-focused workshops are planned as part of the Space Application Adoption Workshop (SAAW) Series to further integrate space data across critical industries!

At the Global Services Export Conclave, SIA-India’s Director General, Mr. Anil Prakash, spotlighted India’s booming space sector, now valued at $8 billion and projected to reach $44 billion by 2033. With a 16% growth rate, India’s space industry is shifting from exploration to a commercial powerhouse, supported by over 500 space companies and 200+ start-ups. Mr. Prakash emphasized India’s strengths in satellite launches and policy-driven growth, alongside strategic partnerships with Indonesia, Kazakhstan, and Vietnam. India is also expanding collaborations with Japan, New Zealand, and Pacific nations, offering sustainable solutions for disaster resilience, resource management, and energy transition.

SIA-India is honoured to support the International Academy of Astronautics (IAA) Space Debris and Sustainability Conference, set for December 2-4, 2024, in Hong Kong. This event will focus on critical issues surrounding space debris and the need for sustainable practices in space activities. The conference gathers experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss innovative solutions and collaborative efforts for a safer and more sustainable space environment.

The "Digitizing Make in India: Aerospace & Defence Edition" event, hosted by Z47 (formerly Matrix Partners India) and supported by SIA-India and MountTech Growth Fund - Kavachh, brought digitization to the forefront of India’s aerospace and defense sectors.

Opening remarks by SIA-India’s Director General, Mr. Anil Prakash, set the tone for this pivotal session, underscoring digital transformation’s impact on defense innovation. Lt Gen PJS Pannu (Retd), Sr Advisor to SIA-India, further enriched the discussion by participating in the panel on the future of defence innovation through satellite technology. The panel included: Ashish Saraf, CEO Thales, Air Chief Marshal (Retd) Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria, Distinguished Member, MountTech Growth Fund - Kavachh, Anurag Srivastava, Associate VP, Z47, Sudipto Sannigrahi, MD, Z47. Together, we are committed to strengthening India's position as a global leader in aerospace and defence through collaboration and indigenous capabilities.

We are excited to announce that SIA-India has joined forces with Aviakul as the Outreach Partner for the upcoming Sustainable Aviation Conclave (GSAC) - Chapter 2. This partnership reflects our commitment to promoting sustainable practices within the aviation sector. Together, we aim to unite leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to explore transformative solutions for a greener aviation future. With SIA-India’s involvement, GSAC will drive critical discussions on sustainability and innovation, amplifying the event’s impact on the aerospace industry. We look forward to engaging with thought leaders and shaping the future of sustainable aviation at this significant event!

SIA-India’s Director General, Mr. Anil Prakash, along with Dy. Director General Mr. Rajeev Gambhir and Dy. Director Mr. Anbalagan K, recently met with Ms. Estelle David, South Asia Director and Commercial Counsellor, and Mr. Jules Debrailly of Business France India. The meeting explored avenues to strengthen space cooperation between French and Indian enterprises, especially in anticipation of premier events like the DefSAT Conference & Expo and the India Space Congress. With both nations contributing rich expertise, this collaboration holds immense potential to accelerate shared ambitions and innovation in the aerospace sector.

Agnikul Cosmos is set to commence its commercial operations in early 2025, targeting an impressive 25 launches annually using its innovative mobile launchpad, Dhanush, at ISRO facilities. "Industries are now exploring the use of space for advanced manufacturing processes, such as polymer crystallization and drug development, which greatly benefit from the microgravity environment,” stated co-founder Srinath Ravichandran, noting that 20% of the demand is emerging from these new industries. Agnikul aims to solidify its position in the small satellite launch market and contribute to India’s growing space ecosystem, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and investment in this promising sector.

Mr Anil Prakash
Director General, SIA-India

The Satcom Industry Association of India (SIA-India) is calling on the government to safeguard vital Ka and Ku frequency bands from terrestrial services and to allocate the 27.5-28.5 GHz band exclusively for satellite use, aligning with global best practices. This move is crucial for ensuring last-mile connectivity in remote areas. SIA-India also recommends using the 27.0–31.0 GHz (uplink) and 17.7–21.2 GHz (downlink) bands for Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) to enhance capabilities. SIA-India emphasizes the need for long-term spectrum assignments of up to 20 years, priced at 1% of Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) and clearer guidelines for satellite operators to streamline operations. The association argues that limiting satellite bandwidth would raise operational costs and ultimately burden end-users, urging the preservation of these essential frequencies.

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