Modi meets 20 space startups, pushes global ambitions
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has held discussions with CEOs and founders of 20 Indian space startups, focusing on the expansion of the private space industry and the wider use of space technology.
The meeting at Seva Teerth brought together companies involved in rockets, reusable launch systems, satellites, avionics, advanced propulsion, space and defence intelligence, debris removal and AI-based weather and climate services.
Startup leaders spoke about the rapid development of India’s private space ecosystem and the work being done to build advanced capabilities domestically. They also highlighted the new opportunities created after private participation was opened up in the sector.
The founders said international interest in Indian space technologies is growing and expressed appreciation for government support.
Modi congratulated the entrepreneurs and said the confidence shown by private companies had reinforced the decision to open the sector to greater private participation.
The Prime Minister urged companies to look beyond traditional space applications and develop technologies that can directly improve everyday life.
He encouraged partnerships between space startups and organisations in other fields. For example, companies developing debris-removal technologies could work with environmental institutions, while agricultural space technology firms could collaborate with agricultural universities and government agencies.
Modi also called for India to become a global hub for space talent, investment and businesses. He suggested that startups work with Atal Tinkering Labs as well, with the aim of encouraging schoolchildren to develop an early interest in science, innovation and space technology.