India Space Congress 2025: ‘Time for space sector to lead with urgency,’ says IN-SPACe chairman Pawan Goenka
New Delhi, June 25, 2025 — The India Space Congress 2025 opened with a strong call to action from IN-SPACe Chairman Dr. Pawan Goenka:
“It is time for the Indian space sector to lead with urgency.”
This year’s Congress gathered scientists, industry leaders, policymakers, and global partners in New Delhi. The event focused on how India can scale its space program rapidly and responsibly in a competitive global market.
India at a Crossroads: Private Sector in Focus
In his keynote, Goenka emphasized that India must stop operating in a comfort zone.
“We have the people, we have the ideas, and now we must act—fast,” he said.
The theme for the Congress was “Pioneering Innovations in Space Technology: India’s Journey Towards Global Partnership.” The event brought together over 1,000 participants from 30+ countries, including agencies like NASA, ESA, and JAXA.
With the global space economy expected to cross $1 trillion by 2040, India wants a significant slice of that pie.
Small Launch Vehicles to Drive Growth
A major highlight was the emphasis on small satellite launch vehicles (SSLVs). Dr. Goenka announced that Skyroot’s Vikram, Agnikul’s Agnibaan, and ISRO’s SSLV will all be ready within the next year.
India expects at least 25 SSLV launches annually, enabling faster and cheaper access to space. These launches will support climate tracking, agriculture, communication, and defence.
This expansion will also reduce dependency on foreign launch providers.
Legal & Financial Support Coming Soon
To support this growth, India is finalizing key reforms.
Dr. Goenka confirmed that the Space Activities Bill is ready and waiting for approval. This legislation will allow private players to build, launch, and operate space missions legally and independently.
He also shared that a ₹1,000 crore venture capital fund dedicated to space-tech will launch in early FY26. Meanwhile, new FDI regulations are being shaped to attract foreign investments without compromising national interest.
These measures are expected to build confidence among domestic entrepreneurs and global investors alike.
India’s First Space Unicorn May Arrive Soon
One space startup in India is already worth $500 million, and several others are valued at $250 million or more.
Goenka believes India could see its first space unicorn—a startup valued at over $1 billion—before the end of 2025.
Companies like Skyroot, Agnikul, Pixxel, and Dhruva Space are already making global headlines. With better funding and clearer regulations, their growth will likely accelerate.
India Plans 52 Defence Satellites
India’s focus on space isn’t limited to commercial missions. Dr. Goenka revealed that the country will launch 52 surveillance satellites in the next five years. These satellites will support defence, disaster response, and border monitoring.
Interestingly, half of these satellites will be built by private firms, marking a strong shift toward public–private partnerships in sensitive areas.
This development shows the government’s increasing trust in India’s space-tech startups.
HAL Secures SSLV Manufacturing Deal
In a major boost to the defence-space synergy, Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) signed a ₹511 crore contract to build SSLVs.
This is HAL’s entry into the space manufacturing race. The company will help boost launch capacity, making India a hub for small satellite deployment.
It also shows that traditional defence firms are adapting to new-age aerospace demands.
IN-SPACe to Share Technology
Dr. Goenka highlighted that IN-SPACe will transfer SSLV designs to private industry. This move will enable startups to manufacture their own launch vehicles instead of depending solely on ISRO.
He also urged universities to work closely with private firms. This collaboration can help develop skilled engineers and build a space-ready workforce.
India’s Global Appeal is Growing
Several countries from Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America are looking to collaborate with India on satellite launches and space research.
India’s affordability, technical talent, and democratic governance give it an edge over both China and Western players.
If the momentum continues, India could become a reliable space partner for the Global South.
Conclusion: From Ambition to Action
The India Space Congress 2025 showcased one thing clearly—India is ready to shift gears.
With policy reforms, financial incentives, and private innovation coming together, the next five years could reshape the country’s position in the global space ecosystem.
As Dr. Goenka rightly said:
“This is our moment. If we move fast, we lead. If we wait, we fall behind.”
