The Technology Development Board (TDB), under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, has signed an agreement with Navi Mumbai-based Manastu Space Technologies Private Limited to provide ₹116 crore in financial support for developing advanced green propulsion systems.
The funding will be provided under the Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund to support India’s efforts to develop its own space technologies and make satellite and launch vehicle operations safer and more sustainable.
₹277.63 Crore Space Technology Project
The green propulsion project has a total estimated cost of ₹277.63 crore, of which ₹116 crore will be supported by TDB.
The financial assistance will be provided through Optionally Convertible Debt (OCD).
The project focuses on developing a scalable propulsion system that can be used in satellites and launch vehicles with thrust requirements ranging from 5 millinewtons (mN) to 300 newtons (N).
The programme aims to advance the technology from Technology Readiness Level 6 (TRL-6) to TRL-9, which indicates that the system has been successfully tested and is ready for real-world operations.
Manastu Space Develops Green Propulsion System
Manastu Space is developing an Indian-made propulsion system that uses hydrogen peroxide-based green propellant with special additives.
The system includes a propulsion engine and catalyst technology designed to improve performance while reducing the safety and operational challenges associated with traditional rocket propellants.
The company aims to offer a propulsion solution that is more affordable, reliable and environmentally sustainable.
The technology is designed for different types of space missions, including small satellite operations and larger systems requiring greater thrust.
Technology Already Tested in Space
According to the official statement, Manastu Space has already demonstrated its green propulsion technology in space.
The new funding will help the company improve the existing system through further development, engineering, integration and testing.
The project also includes the development of propulsion engines, propellant feed systems and an ultra-high-temperature ceramic catalyst.
These components are designed to operate reliably under challenging space conditions.
The next stage of development will focus on improving the system’s performance, reliability and readiness for wider commercial use.
Supporting Safer and More Affordable Space Missions
Satellite propulsion systems are important for controlling spacecraft movement, maintaining satellite positions and carrying out other operations in space.
Traditional propulsion systems can involve hazardous chemicals and complex handling requirements.
Manastu Space’s green propulsion technology aims to reduce these challenges while improving operational safety and cost efficiency.
The development could help satellite operators carry out missions more efficiently and support the growing demand for sustainable space technologies.
Strengthening India’s Space Technology Industry
The project falls under the Deep Technology sector, with a focus on space technology.
By supporting the development of locally manufactured propulsion systems, the government aims to reduce India’s dependence on imported space technologies.
The initiative is also expected to strengthen the country’s private space industry and encourage the development of advanced technologies within India.
As India’s commercial space sector continues to grow, locally developed propulsion solutions could play an important role in supporting satellite manufacturing, launches and other space activities.
TDB Highlights Importance of Indian Space Innovation
Rajesh Kumar Pathak, Secretary of the Technology Development Board, said that developing indigenous propulsion technologies is important for strengthening India’s space capabilities.
He explained that the expanding space industry requires propulsion systems that offer strong performance, reliability, safety and cost efficiency.
Pathak said the RDI Fund is intended to support advanced technology projects that need continued investment before they are ready for practical use.
He added that the partnership with Manastu Space reflects the government’s commitment to encouraging Indian space innovation and more sustainable space operations.
Manastu Space Aims to Make Technology Ready for Wider Use
The Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer of Manastu Space said the government funding would help the company advance its green propulsion technology through additional development, testing and validation.
The company plans to create a scalable propulsion platform that combines performance, safety, reliability and affordability.
The partnership will help Manastu Space move towards TRL-9 and prepare its propulsion technology for wider use in satellites and launch vehicles.
The ₹116 crore support marks another step towards strengthening India’s domestic space technology industry and developing safer, more efficient propulsion systems for future space missions.
