Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on India’s rapidly developing private space industry to expand the use of space technology beyond traditional applications and address challenges across a wider range of sectors. During an interaction with the founders and chief executive officers of 20 space startups at Seva Teerth on Friday, Modi emphasized the potential for Indian companies to become global leaders while attracting international talent, businesses, and investment.
The prime minister encouraged entrepreneurs to focus on how space-based technologies can deliver practical benefits to society. He suggested closer cooperation between companies and organizations working in fields such as agriculture and environmental protection. For example, businesses developing systems to monitor space debris could partner with environmental groups, while companies creating agricultural space technologies could collaborate with agricultural universities and government departments to help farmers improve decision-making and productivity.
Modi also outlined a broader ambition for India to establish itself as a preferred global destination for space innovation. He called for an ecosystem strong enough that international companies and professionals automatically consider India when looking for opportunities in the space sector.
Industry leaders participating in the meeting highlighted the rapid development of India’s private space ecosystem. They noted that international interest in technologies developed by Indian space companies is increasing and welcomed the opportunities created after the sector was opened to greater private participation. The entrepreneurs also acknowledged government support for the industry’s expansion.
The startups represented a wide range of specialized technologies. Their work includes launch vehicles, reusable semi-cryogenic systems, avionics, satellites, advanced propulsion, space and defense intelligence, debris removal, and artificial intelligence-powered weather and climate services. The diversity of these businesses reflects the growing scope of India’s commercial space industry.
Modi congratulated the entrepreneurs for entering an emerging and strategically important field. He said the confidence demonstrated by private companies has reinforced the government’s decision to encourage greater industry participation in space. He also pointed out that some countries have limited ability or willingness to make major investments in space, creating an opportunity for India to strengthen its position in the international market.
The prime minister further encouraged space companies to work with Atal Tinkering Labs to introduce young students to space science and technology. Such partnerships, he said, could spark curiosity and encourage the next generation to explore careers in the sector.
The meeting brought together representatives from 20 Indian startups, underscoring the government’s growing focus on private innovation as a key component of India’s ambitions in the global space economy.
