The Gujarat government has announced plans to develop India’s third satellite launch site, following the existing spaceport in Sriharikota and the forthcoming one in Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu. Arjun Modhwadia, the state’s science and technology minister, disclosed in the state assembly that a location has been identified near Gir Somnath district along the coast of the Arabian Sea. This announcement was part of the budgetary discussions for his department.

Consultations with IN-SPACe Led to Location Selection

Modhwadia stated that this site was chosen after discussions with the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), the regulatory body for space activities in India. The minister emphasized that the location, situated between the Union Territory of Diu and Kodinar, holds potential for developing a launchpad for satellite deployment, similar to the operations conducted at Sriharikota.

Streamlined Process for Satellite Launch Center Establishment

A senior official from the space sector remarked that both state governments and private entities now have the opportunity to construct satellite launch centers due to recent reforms. However, obtaining prior authorization from IN-SPACe is mandatory for carrying out satellite launch operations at the new site. IN-SPACe functions as a single-window agency under the Department of Space.

Regulatory Framework Governed by Indian Space Policy-2023

The Indian Space Policy-2023 stipulates that all space activities—including launches, operations, and re-entry of any space object—require authorization from IN-SPACe. In conjunction with this, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) regulates airspace and issues Notices to Air Missions (NOTAM) to inform aircraft prior to any rocket or satellite launch, indicating a holistic regulatory approach to aerospace activities.

Gujarat Space Park to Foster Industry Growth

As part of its commitment to enhancing the space industry, the Gujarat government is also developing a space park over an area of 100 acres in Sanand. This initiative aims to attract companies engaged in space technology and satellite manufacturing. Modhwadia highlighted that industrial units focused on space technologies are anticipated to emerge in the park, contributing to a comprehensive ecosystem for the sector.

Azista Aerospace to Establish Private Satellite Manufacturing Facility

During his address, Modhwadia expressed satisfaction with the commencement of operations by Azista Aerospace, which aims to manufacture small satellites at an investment of Rs 500 crore. The process for land allocation to the company has begun, with the facility expected to become the first private-sector satellite manufacturing plant in India capable of end-to-end operations. These progressive steps are aimed at positioning Gujarat as a significant player in the nation’s burgeoning space sector.

Overview of Existing Spaceports in India

India’s principal spaceport, the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR at Sriharikota, commenced operations on October 9, 1971, with the launch of a sounding rocket. Since then, it has successfully launched 434 foreign satellites, conducted 134 spacecraft missions, and facilitated the launch of 18 satellites by private entities or academic institutions. Meanwhile, the second spaceport being constructed at Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu has received an allocation of Rs 985.9 crore, with commissioning expected within the current financial year.

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