Indian Space Policy 2023

Jun 27, 2024

Lecture Notes: Indian Space Policy 2023

Introduction

  • Indian Space Policy (ISP) 2023
    • Short Form: ISP
    • Implemented by the Indian Government
    • Objective: Enhance India's space sector

Key Reasons for ISP 2023

  • Role of ISRO

    • Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is a government body responsible for India's space activities.
    • Overburdened and needs support in the space sector

  • Private Sector Inclusion

    • ISP 2023 allows private entities to enter the space sector
    • Reason: To complement ISRO’s efforts and boost the space economy

  • Global Market Contribution

    • Despite ISRO’s success, India contributes only 2% to the global space market, which is worth $390 billion
    • Aim: Increase contribution to 9% by 2030

Important Agencies Under ISP

  1. IN-SPACe

    • Acts as a liaison between ISRO and private sector stakeholders
    • Facilitates access to ISRO’s resources like satellites and launch pads

  2. NSIL (New Space India Ltd.)

    • Handles strategic space activities

  3. Department of Space

    • Nodal department for global space governance

Roles and Responsibilities

  • ISRO

    • Focus on space exploration and advanced technology
    • Exclusive authority over exploration activities (e.g., missions to the moon, Mars)

  • Private Sector & ISP

    • Enhance N2N (Nanosatellite to Nanosatellite) capabilities
    • Develop and encourage private sector involvement in space activities

Objectives of ISP

  • Unlock India’s Potential

    • Aim to enhance India’s capabilities beyond the current 2% contribution

  • Global Contribution Comparison

    • USA: 40%
    • UK: 7%
    • India's Goal: Increase share to 9%
    • Private sector inclusion (e.g., SpaceX, Blue Origin) crucial for increasing contribution

  • Employment Opportunities

    • ISP expected to boost employment in the space sector

  • Security Enhancement

    • Both internal and external security benefits

  • Self-Reliance

    • Aligns with the 'Atma Nirbhar Bharat' initiative to reduce dependence on other countries

Current Challenges in the Space Sector

  • Lack of Proper Regulations

    • Need for clearer regulatory framework for commercial licenses

  • Space Debris Increase

    • More private activities can lead to more space debris

  • Global Trust Deficit

    • Potential decrease in trust between countries

Gaps in ISP 2023

  • Ambiguous Role of IN-SPACe

    • Lacks a proper timeline and clear framework

  • No Clear Legal Framework

    • ISP operating based on executive orders, lacks legislation

  • Need for Statutory Status

    • Requires a statutory framework for effective implementation

  • Investment Ambiguity

    • Unclear policies regarding foreign investments in the space sector

Conclusion

  • Legislative Action Required
    • Government needs to pass a bill for a proper regulatory and legal framework

Closing Remarks

  • Importance of ISP 2023
    • Aims to enhance India’s space capabilities, increase global contribution, improve employment opportunities, and achieve self-reliance in the space sector.

Thank you for attending this session on the Indian Space Policy 2023.