Enabling innovation in space

Punching above weight is an inherent quality an Indian scientist must have. Imagine the success the fraternity would achieve if it receives more support and encouragement. Over the years, scientists have battled numerous odds to bring laurels to the country. The government’s move to open up the space sector to private entities last year was an indication that it is willing to push the envelope in this sector. This is the opportune time for the country to democratise access to space and use it as a driver for economic growth.

ISRO has played a stellar role in the country’s progress and the introduction of private entities will not undermine the former’s role. The formation of industry body Indian Space Association should help this strategic sector evade roadblocks which hinder its growth trajectory. According to experts who track this sector, the country is poised to become a satellite communication hub by 2030. A strong representative body can reach out to the government and can help iron out the edges.

The sector’s growth potential is enormous and can help the government realise its objective of making a positive difference in a common man’s life. The ripple effect of these would be felt directly the education system, especially in R&D projects. Innovation will no longer remain a ‘perfunctory’ word in our daily conversations. But we must always remember that Rome wasn’t built in a day.

In India, almost all space scientists are employed in the government sector that controls the domain exclusively. It might be expected that private capital and managerial skills would help the scientists to move in a more result-oriented trajectory that would also exploit the emerging space tech market all over the world. ISRO has demonstrated how to build expertise in the satellite carriage market. Private sector participation in space technology can perhaps offer equal and more conducive environment to build more skills in this and related domains.