Space start-up SkyRoot's VIKRAM-1 became India’s first orbital launch vehicle to reach space

Indian private space companies are preparing for a breakthrough with more than eight commercial rocket launches planned across FY 2026-27 and FY 2027-28, signalling a decisive expansion of India’s private launch capability. The government confirmed that 440 start-ups are registered in the sector, with 18 already authorised by IN-SPACe to conduct space activities.

The government informed Parliament on 13 August that private companies could undertake two commercial launches in FY 2026-27, followed by more than six in FY 2027-28. This marks the first time India’s private sector is expected to contribute significantly to the country’s launch manifest, complementing ISRO’s missions.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh, citing DPIIT Start-up India Portal data, revealed that 440 space technology startups are registered in India. Of these, 18 start-ups have received authorisations from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), which acts as a single-window agency under the Department of Space to promote and supervise non-government space activities.

IN-SPACe has granted 113 authorisations to 52 Non-Government Entities, including the 18 start-ups. These authorisations cover satellites, launch vehicles, services, and infrastructure, while also facilitating access to ISRO facilities such as the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. Applications are reviewed by expert committees to ensure readiness before approval.

The 18 authorised start-ups or private companies include;

Agnikul Cosmos
Akshath Aerospace
Azista BST
Bellatrix Aerospace
Cosmoserv Space India
Dhruva Space
Digantara Research And Technologies
GalaxEye Space Solutions
HEX20Labs India
Inorbit Space Telecommunications
Manastu Space Technologies
NSpace Tech India
OrbitAID Aerospace
PierSight Space
PixxelSpace India
Skyroot Aerospace
Space Kidz India
TakeMe2Space Technologies

Skyroot Aerospace has already signed a three-launch deal with HEX20 Space for Vikram-1 missions beginning in late 2027, adding momentum to the private sector’s pipeline. Agnikul Cosmos is preparing its Agnibaan modular rocket, while PixxelSpace India is advancing its Earth observation satellite constellation.

Dhruva Space and Bellatrix Aerospace are focusing on satellite platforms and propulsion systems, respectively, while Digantara is developing space situational awareness solutions.

The government’s announcement comes amid broader reforms in India’s space sector. ISRO, through IN-SPACe, is preparing to hand over the upcoming Small-Satellite Launch Complex at Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu to private operators.

This facility, designed for small launch vehicles such as ISRO’s SSLV and private rockets like Vikram-1 and Agnibaan, will allow direct southward launches, reducing fuel consumption and increasing payload capacity.

India’s space economy is expanding rapidly, with revenues reaching $8.4 billion in 2025, accounting for 2% of the global market. Small rockets are expected to drive future growth, with projections estimating $3.5 billion in market value by 2033. The combination of government-backed infrastructure, private innovation, and IN-SPACe’s regulatory support is positioning India as a competitive player in the global launch market.

The expected eight-plus launches over FY27 and FY28 represent a turning point, as private companies transition from experimental missions to commercial operations. This shift will not only enhance India’s competitiveness but also strengthen technological self-reliance and reduce dependence on foreign launch providers.

Agencies