PM Modi Tells Space Startups to Aim for Global Talent, Vows Policy Stability

Ahead of National Space Day on August 23, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with the CEOs of 20 space startups, including Skyroot Aerospace, to discuss the sector's growth and future ambitions.

During the interaction, PM Modi encouraged young entrepreneurs to transform India into a global space hub. He highlighted the country's cost-efficiency, deep talent pool, and high risk tolerance as key competitive advantages. "I believe that we can draw the entire talent pool because of you, and that will become our strength," he said.

Startup founders shared updates on several advanced projects, including global ground-station networks, satellite engines, space-debris-removal robotics, and orbital docking and refuelling capabilities. One startup also mentioned ongoing research into manufacturing pharmaceuticals in microgravity.

Pawan Chandana, co-founder of Skyroot Aerospace—recently the first private Indian company to conduct an orbital launch—outlined ambitious plans. "We already have three factories with the capacity to manufacture one rocket per month. By mid-next year, we plan to execute one launch per month, with the ultimate dream of scaling to multiple launches a day," he said, noting the company has secured eight launch contracts, mostly from foreign clients.

Founders also noted that Indians working abroad are beginning to return due to the sector's current boom. They praised the government's supportive policy framework since the space sector opened to private players in 2020.

PM Modi assured entrepreneurs of unwavering support, emphasising policy continuity. "You have shown courage in a new space, and importantly, you have trusted the government. When we were opening up… whatever we decide, we should not make changes so that whoever is investing can trust that no one will leave my hand," he said.