India space sector expansion and commercial growth

India is significantly expanding its space launch capacity and commercial market presence through infrastructure development and policy reforms. To address rising demand, the government approved the construction of a third launch platform at Sriharikota to complement existing pads and support next-generation vehicles.

Domestic private-sector investment in the space industry grew from approximately US$100.5 million in 2021-22 to about US$618.5 million by March 2026. The ecosystem has expanded from a single startup in 2014 to over 400 companies. These developments are supported by the Indian Space Policy 2023, liberalized FDI policies, and technology transfers from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) via NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).

Driven by these reforms and strengthening ties with the United States, India’s share of the global space market is projected to potentially reach 10 percent within the next five to seven years. The US Department of Commerce has highlighted the sector as its ‘Market of the Month,’ noting opportunities in satellite systems, manufacturing, and connectivity.