Archive · 13 Aug 2026
India's space sector sees 440 startups; 18 win IN-SPACe authorisations
India is very interested in space.
The government told its Parliament about how many space companies are starting up.
About 440 new space companies have registered with the government.
These companies build rockets, satellites, and other space technology.
The government has given permission to 52 companies to work in space, and 18 of them are brand new startups.
Some of these startups have names like Skyroot Aerospace and Agnikul Cosmos.
Over the next two years, private companies plan to launch more than eight rockets into space.
Two launches are planned for the 2026-27 financial year, and more than six more are expected in 2027-28.
Companies can also use the launch pads at Sriharikota by following a clear process.
This shows that space is no longer just for government agencies — private companies can join too!
Around 440 space technology startups are registered on India's Start-up India portal.
IN-SPACe has granted 113 authorisations to 52 non-government entities for various space activities.
Eighteen of the authorised entities are startups, including Agnikul Cosmos, PixxelSpace India and Skyroot Aerospace.
Indian private companies are expected to undertake more than eight commercial rocket launches over the next two years.
Two launches are proposed for FY 2026-27, while more than six are expected in 2027-28.
- Who
- The Indian government, Union Minister of State Jitendra Singh, IN-SPACe, and Indian private space startups.
- What
- An update to Parliament reporting about 440 registered space startups, 113 IN-SPACe authorisations to 52 non-government entities, and plans for more than eight private commercial rocket launches over the next two years.
- When
- Thursday, via a written reply to the Rajya Sabha.
- Where
- India; the reply was given in the Rajya Sabha, and launch activity would use facilities such as the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
- Why
- Because India's space sector is opening up to private participation, with startups and non-government entities taking a larger role in satellite development, launch services and other space activities.
- Registered space technology startups
- Around 440
- IN-SPACe authorisations granted
- 113
- Authorised non-government entities
- 52
- Authorised startups
- 18
- Commercial launches proposed (FY 2026-27)
- 2
- Commercial launches expected (FY 2027-28)
- More than 6
- Total private launches expected over two years
- More than 8
- Launch site mentioned
- Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota