The recent launch of the Indian Space Association (ISpA) by the Prime Minister has brought the spotlight on India’s growing involvement in space technology. The establishment of ISpA opens up a new chapter for the Indian space efforts, acting as a centralized and independent agency focusing on space technology. With this approach, the government’s orientation towards space reforms is centered around four main pillars.
The Role and Goals of ISpA
ISpA aims to unify the voice of the Indian Space industry. It signifies representation from major domestic and international corporations with advanced capabilities in space and satellite technologies. Its primary function will be to participate in policy advocacy and collaborate with all stakeholders in the Indian Space domain, including the Government and its agencies.
The goal is to make India technologically advanced, self-reliant, and a leading player in the space arena. Additionally, ISpA will aim to build global linkages for the Indian space industry, introduce critical technology and investments into the country, and create more high-skill jobs.
Significance of ISpA
The formation of ISpA is a crucial step towards supplementing the government’s efforts to elevate India as a global leader in commercial space-based excursions. Recently, ISRO’s rockets have been transporting payload and communication satellites for various countries. In line with this, private players will now also get opportunities to explore this domain through the newly formed organization.
In recent times, many private sector companies have exhibited interest in India’s space domain as space-based communication networks gain popularity.
Other Related Organizations
Apart from ISpA, there are other organizations that play significant roles in the space arena, such as IN-SPACE and NSIL. The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACE) was established in 2020 to allow private companies to utilize Indian space infrastructure fairly.
On the other hand, New Space India Limited (NSIL), a public sector company established in line with the 2019 Budget, functions as ISRO’s marketing arm. Its main aim is to market the technologies developed by ISRO and attract more clients needing space-based services.
Four Pillars of Space Reforms
In line with these initiatives, the government’s approach towards space reforms is based on four pillars. It includes allowing the private sector freedom for innovation while the government plays an enabler’s role. Preparations are also being made to equip young minds for future challenges. For example, the ATL Space Challenge 2021 was launched to provide students of classes 6 to 12 with a platform to innovate and solve digital age space technology problems.
Another crucial pillar is treating the space sector as a common man’s resource for progress. Space technology is being used for diverse purposes such as monitoring development projects using satellite imaging, settling Fasal Bima Yojna claims, disaster management planning, and aiding fishermen through the NAVIC system.
