The Government of Karnataka and the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) have signed a series of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at strengthening India’s commercial space capabilities and positioning Karnataka as a central hub in the national space ecosystem. Facilitated through the Department of Electronics, Information Technology, Biotechnology, and Science & Technology, the MoUs include the establishment of a Centre of Excellence for Space Technologies in Bengaluru and the development of a dedicated Space Manufacturing Park for satellite and launch vehicle production.
According to an official release, the collaboration sets the foundation for structured cooperation between Karnataka and IN-SPACe in fostering innovation, manufacturing capacity, and talent development within the space sector.
Karnataka currently hosts a well-established space ecosystem, encompassing public-sector organisations such as ISRO, DRDO, HAL, BEL, BHEL, and NAL, in addition to a large network of MSMEs and research institutions. The new initiatives are designed to build on this existing infrastructure and align with the objectives of the Indian Space Policy, 2023.
The agreements aim to support the emerging NewSpace economy by promoting public-private collaboration, enabling regulatory facilitation, and fostering technological advancement. These efforts are in line with IN-SPACe’s mandate to increase private sector participation and streamline commercial operations in the space domain.
The MoUs were signed by Dr Ekroop Caur, IAS, Secretary to the Government of Karnataka (Electronics, IT, Biotechnology, and Science & Technology), and Lochan Sehra, IAS, Joint Secretary, IN-SPACe, in the presence of Dr Shalini Rajneesh, IAS, Chief Secretary to the Government of Karnataka, and Dr Pawan Goenka, Chairman, IN-SPACe.
In her remarks, Dr Shalini Rajneesh emphasized the significance of the agreements in creating a robust and globally competitive space industry in Karnataka, supported by policy and infrastructure. The initiative is expected to facilitate seamless integration across the value chain, from research and development to manufacturing and deployment.
As the global space economy shifts from traditional government-led programs to dynamic public-private partnerships, these MoUs mark a significant step toward enhancing India’s competitiveness. The focus on innovation, agility, and enterprise-driven growth reflects a broader national ambition to build a strong space-based economy.
Dr Pawan Goenka noted that Karnataka has become a key location for emerging space start-ups and next-generation technology enterprises. He stated that the agreements would further consolidate Karnataka’s role in the sector and contribute to both regional and national goals. He added that IN-SPACe would continue working closely with the state to facilitate the development and production of advanced satellite systems, propulsion technologies, and deep-space capabilities.
