The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) on Friday released the norms for implementing a part of the Indian Space Policy 2023 which provides a framework for the participation of private sector companies in India's space activities and facilitates collaboration between the government and private entities in the space sector.
According to the Indian Space Policy 2023, IN-SPACe will grant authorisation to both government bodies and private sector entities for space activities, including the establishment and operation of space objects, rocket launches, construction of launchpads, planned re-entry of space objects and more.
The norms, guidelines, and procedures will enhance the government's efforts to establish a predictable regulatory framework, promote transparency, and facilitate business operations in the Indian space sector.
According to the guidelines, only Indian entities are eligible to apply to IN-SPACe for authorisation. However, non-Indian entities that wish to conduct space activities in India can still apply to IN-SPACe for authorisation by partnering with an Indian entity, such as an Indian subsidiary, joint venture or any other collaboration arrangement recognised by the Government of India.
The authorised agent or distributor of international entities may apply for IN-SPACe Authorisation for certain category of permits such as permit for international GSO or NGSO satellite to facilitate the provision of its capacity in India for communication services, Dissemination of space-based earth observation/Remote Sensing data, etc, the document mentioned.
On April 21, 2023, the Indian government unveiled its highly anticipated Indian Space Policy 2023 which specifically lays down the role of several government bodies including the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Department of Space, while also outlining the role of non-governmental entities (NGEs) or private players within India’s space ecosystem.