Start-up Ecosystem: Over 55 Start-ups registered with ISRO, Department of Space, in just about 2 years
The space sector has shown a thriving ecosystem of entrepreneurs and private businesses with aid from government policies and reforms. Over 55 start-ups have registered with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Department of Space, in just about two years since the Indian Space Department and the ISRO were opened to the private sector, under the personal intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Union Minister of State for Science & Technology Dr Jitendra Singh provided this information while presiding over the 4th joint meeting of all the Science Ministries and departments.
In addition, 74 Student satellites are scheduled for launch this year that is coinciding with Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, celebrating the 75th year of India’s Independence.
“Unlocking” the Indian Space sector
After unlocking the Space Sector for private players, Innovative Start-Ups are coming in a big way to explore the untapped potential. During the meeting, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh stated that out of 55 proposals, 29 are Satellite related, 10 are for Space Applications and Products, 8 are related to Launch vehicles and 8 are about Ground Systems and Research. The Minister further added that 9 proposals from Startups are expected to be completed by 2022-23.
Dr Jitendra Singh also informed that CSIR with the help of the North Eastern Council (NEC) has identified 50 problems requiring S&T intervention in the North Eastern States. 5 out of 8 NE States have already initiated STI policy formulation. As far as STI Mapping of States and UTs is concerned the exercise is over in all 28 States and 6 UTs, the Minister informed.
An idea for Science Media Centre was also proposed during the meeting. As per the Minister, this Centre will function as an inter-ministerial integrated media Cell for all S&T departments and Vigyan Prasar will be merged into it.
R&D, Innovation and STI Ecosystem:
Gujarat is the only State to have an S&T policy, but after brainstorming sessions for the last couple of months, 11 more states including Sikkim, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh are preparing their S&T policy. Each of the States and Union Territories has been asked to identify the areas where technological interventions can help resolve diverse problems to enable ease of living.
