India’s space budget nearly triples in decade

New Delhi

India's space budget has nearly tripled over the past decade, rising from ₹5,615 crore in 2013-14 to ₹13,416 crore in 2025-26, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced on Saturday.

Speaking at the ‘Space-Tech for Good Governance’ Conclave, Dr. Singh highlighted that space technology is now central to governance, improving transparency, reducing corruption, and enhancing citizen participation. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for integrating space applications into everyday life.

India’s space sector has seen remarkable growth, with the number of startups increasing from one to over 300. The country has launched 433 foreign satellites, including 396 since 2014, generating $192 million and 272 million euros in revenue.

Dr. Singh emphasized that space technology plays a crucial role in national security, border surveillance, and intelligence gathering. He also pointed out its impact on agriculture, urban planning, disaster preparedness, and weather forecasting, calling it a “force multiplier” for economic growth.

India's satellite systems have become vital for neighboring countries, strengthening its regional leadership in space. Dr. Singh cited the Chandrayaan-3 mission, which made India the first nation to reach the Moon’s southern pole, as proof of India’s growing influence in global space exploration.

He concluded by stating that India is no longer following others but setting trends for the world in space technology, governance, and innovation.