IN-SPACe has approved a government-owned communication frequency for Hyderabad-based Ananth Technologies Ltd, which will launch a communication satellite within the next three years. Ananth Technologies, a longstanding ISRO partner, will act as the satellite operator while others lease its telecom capacity. The project is valued at over ₹2,000 crore.
More Frequencies for Private Sector
IN-SPACe also plans to release 1–2 additional frequencies for use by other private companies. This move aligns with the government’s broader effort to boost private participation in India’s space sector.
Communication Satellites to Drive Growth
The Indian government aims to expand the country’s space economy from $8 billion to $44 billion by 2033. This would raise the space sector’s GDP share from less than 0.1% to 0.5%.
Key drivers of this growth include:
- Communication services: $14.8 billion
- Navigation: $9.3 billion
- Earth observation: $8 billion
- Satellite manufacturing: $4.6 billion
- Ground networks and in-orbit services: $2.5 billion
Annual Investment to Reach $2–2.5 Billion
Chairman Pawan Goenka projected $2–2.5 billion in annual investment in the space sector until 2033, totaling around $22 billion. Large players like Tata and L&T will invest directly, while smaller companies will depend on investors and government support.
Government Support Through VC Fund
To address funding challenges in deep-tech and space, the government recently launched a ₹1,000 crore venture capital fund for space start-ups. In total, it has committed ₹3,500–₹4,000 crore to support the industry’s development.
