IN-SPACe Releases Guidelines For Implementation Of Indian Space Policy 2023

The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) on Friday (May 3) released the guidelines for the implementation of the Indian Space Policy 2023. The norms pertain to the rules regarding authorisation for space activities in the country. 

The guidelines detail various space-related activities that need authorisation from IN-SPACe. It also outlines various criteria and prerequisites mandatory to seek appropriate approvals from the space agency. 

The norms encompass activities such as space-based communication services, operations of space transportation systems, establishment and operation of ground systems, dissemination of remote sensing data, sale of in-orbit space objects, among others. 

The applicants have to fulfil various criteria such as technical obligations and specify budgets, risk mitigation measures and aspects related to pricing. 

“… The NGP, as described in this document, includes the list of space activities which need authorisation from IN-SPACe, criteria for granting the authorisation and necessary conditions/guidelines to be adhered-to by an applicant..,” the document said. 

The guidelines also delineate that only Indian entities can apply for authorisation from IN-SPACe, while foreign companies can apply for approval through their Indian subsidiaries or joint ventures with any local company. 

“Only an Indian entity can apply to IN-SPACe seeking authorisation. non-Indian entities desiring to conduct space activity in India can apply to IN-SPACe for authorisation through an Indian entity which could be its Indian subsidiary, joint venture or any other collaboration arrangement recognised by the Government of India,” noted the guidelines. 

Not just this, the norms also mandate that applicants have to inform the IN-SPACe about any change in their ‘management and control’ or shareholding pattern within 48 hours. In the instance where the control of the authorised entity is passed to a foreign company, the company will have to apply for fresh authorisation.

Additionally, the approvals are also subject to the national security regulations and the norms bar activities that pose a “threat to national defence, intelligence and security operations, foreign relations, public order, the safety of people or their property, and protection against natural disasters”.

Non-compliance with the guidelines and applicable local laws may result in revocation of the authorisation by IN-SPACe, added the document. 

“IN-SPACe may impose control on operations of the authorised space objects and space activities or terminate/suspend the authorization, during national emergencies or in the interest of national security, such as situation arising out of or due to conflicts or natural disasters or times of emergency..,” added the IN-SPACe guidelines. 

The rules also envisage penalties in case an applicant “unilaterally discontinues/ terminates/ withdraws the provision of services” during the tenure of the approval depending on the nature of the loss, damage, impact on Indian users due to “discontinuation of service, expenses or any harm or prejudice to the interests of India’s national security caused by such actions of the applicant”.

At the heart of all this is the Indian Space Policy which was unveiled last year. The new policy aims to establish a framework for integrating the private sector into the space industry and bring reforms to boost their participation in the industry.

The policy also aims to foster collaboration between researchers, academicians, startups and the industry. The new policy also delineates the roles and responsibilities of organisations like (ISRO) and other private entities.

The latest development comes three months after the Indian government liberalised the FDI regime for the sector, allowing up to 100% FDI via the automatic route for certain sub-segments in the space sector.

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