ISRO Set to Shift Rocket Manufacturing to Private Firms, Says IN-SPACe Chief

India is moving towards a new model in which the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) could gradually step away from routine manufacturing of rockets and satellites, with private companies and public sector undertakings expected to take a larger role in production. According to the report, the shift was outlined by Dr Pawan Goenka, Chairman of IN-SPACe, while speaking at the India @ 100 Economy Summit organised by Business Today. Under the emerging model, ISRO is expected to focus more on research, new technologies, and complex space missions, while the manufacturing of rockets and other mature technologies could increasingly be handled by private companies and PSUs. SSLV Technology Already Handed Over The transition has already started with the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle ( SSLV ). According to Goenka, the technology and manufacturing rights for the rocket have been transferred to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) following an open bidding process. The move is being seen as an early example of how ISRO-developed technology can eventually move into the commercial sector once it reaches a stage where it can be produced regularly. The same approach could eventually be extended to some of India's major launch vehicles, including the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3). Goenka indicated that these rockets could eventually be manufactured by private companies. Unlike the SSLV model, private firms are expected to play a larger role in manufacturing and operating these launch vehicles. The proposed transition would mark a major change for India's space programme, given the importance of PSLV and LVM3. PSLV is among ISRO's most dependable launch vehicles, while LVM3 is the country's most powerful operational rocket. ISRO to Focus on Research and Advanced Technology The shift does not mean a reduced role for ISRO . Instead, the space agency is expected to concentrate more strongly on research and development. ISRO would focus on scientific missions, advanced technologies, specialised satellites and complex space infrastructure. Once a technology becomes mature, it could then be transferred to industry for commercial production and operations. Goenka said ISRO has already transferred 120 technologies to private companies, indicating that the process of expanding industry participation is already underway. Private Firm May Operate New Launch Site India is also looking to increase private participation in launch operations. According to the report, a private company could be selected to operate a new launch facility within the next four to five months. Greater private participation in launch operations could help increase the number of commercial launches from India and strengthen the country's position in the global space market. India Targets $44 Billion Space Economy The changes are part of India's broader plan to expand its space economy. India's space sector is currently estimated at around $8 billion, with the government targeting growth to nearly $44 billion by 2033. Goenka said achieving the target would require growth in three major areas: stronger government demand, wider use of space technology by industries outside the traditional space sector, and greater access to international markets. The government is expected to act as an anchor customer by creating demand for products and services developed by private space companies. Defence Sector Boosts Private Space Industry The defence sector is also emerging as an important source of business for private space companies. Goenka said the Department of Defence has already placed orders for 31 satellites with private companies, while ISRO is expected to develop another 21 satellites under the broader programme. India is also moving towards a model in which private companies can own satellites and other space assets and earn revenue from the data and services generated by them. Also Read: Congress Questions Delay in Parliament Prorogation, Targets Amit Shah Over Bill