India's Third Satellite Launch Centre to be Established in Gujarat
India is set to expand its space infrastructure with a third satellite launch centre, this time in Gujarat. This development follows the operational Sriharikota spaceport in Andhra Pradesh and the upcoming facility at Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu's Thoothukudi district. The new site, identified near Gir Somnath district along the Arabian Sea coast, marks a significant step in bolstering the country's space launch capabilities.
Ministerial Announcement and Site Identification
Gujarat's Science and Technology Minister, Arjun Modhwadia, recently disclosed in the state assembly that a proposed launch location has been pinpointed after consultations with the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe). Speaking during budgetary discussions for his department, Modhwadia stated, "As per our request, IN-SPACe has found a suitable location which can be developed as a launchpad for putting satellites into orbit, just like Sriharikota. That location is between the UT of Diu and Kodinar. We are now moving forward in that direction."
Regulatory Framework and Authorisation Process
A senior space official explained to TOI that while state governments or private entities can construct satellite launch centres in India, operational launches require prior authorisation from IN-SPACe. This agency serves as the single-window nodal body under the Department of Space, streamlining processes post-space sector reforms. According to the Norms, Guidelines and Procedures for implementing the Indian Space Policy-2023, any space activity, including launch operations, must be authorised by IN-SPACe. Additionally, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation plays a role by issuing Notices to Air Missions to alert aircraft before launches, ensuring airspace safety.
Gujarat's Broader Space Initiatives
In parallel, the Gujarat government is advancing its space sector promotion with a 100-acre space park near Sanand, designed to attract companies in space technology and satellite manufacturing. Minister Modhwadia highlighted that industrial units based on space technology are expected to emerge at this facility, fostering a comprehensive ecosystem. He announced, "I am happy to say that Azista Aerospace has started work to manufacture small satellites at a cost of Rs 500 crore, and the process of allocating land to them has begun." This facility is poised to become India's first private-sector satellite manufacturing plant with end-to-end operational capabilities, positioning Gujarat as a pivotal hub in the nation's expanding space industry.
Context of India's Existing Spaceports
India's primary spaceport, the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota, has been operational since October 9, 1971, launching numerous missions including 434 foreign satellites, 134 spacecraft, and 18 satellites by private players or students. The second spaceport at Kulasekarapattinam is currently under construction, with an allocation of Rs 985.9 crore and commissioning targeted for this financial year. These developments underscore India's commitment to enhancing its space infrastructure and fostering private sector participation in the global space arena.
