Global Competitiveness of India's Space Programme

Why in news

A Parliament question highlighted the budgetary allocations to the Department of Space and sought details on India's global standing in the space sector concerning launch capability, satellite manufacturing, and reusable launch vehicles.

Exam relevance

GS3 · Science & Technology, Economy, Governance · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. Total budget allocated to the Department of Space for 2025-26 was Rs. 13416.20 crores.
2. The Department of Space budget represented 0.26% of the Union Budget and 0.03% of India's GDP in 2025-26.
3. Expenditure on Space Technology (building of Launch Vehicles, EO Satellites, Navigation, etc.) was Rs. 9601.98 crores in 2025-26 (RE).
4. Expenditure on Space Applications (NNRMS, DMS, etc.) was Rs. 1596.27 crores in 2025-26 (RE).
5. Expenditure on Space Sciences (Planetary Missions, Sponsored Research, etc.) was Rs. 184.62 crores in 2025-26 (RE).
6. Expenditure on Indian National Satellite System (Communication Satellites) was Rs. 205.95 crores in 2025-26 (RE).

Prelims pointers

• The Department of Space's budget as a percentage of the Union Budget and India's GDP provides insights into national spending priorities.
• Expenditure breakdown across Space Technology, Space Applications, Space Sciences, and Satellite Systems highlights the diverse areas of focus within the space program.
• Assessment of India's global standing in launch capability, satellite manufacturing, and reusable launch vehicles is a key indicator of technological prowess.

Mains practice question

Examine the budgetary allocations and expenditure trends of India's space program in recent years. Critically analyze the global competitiveness of India's space sector in terms of launch capability, satellite manufacturing, and reusable launch vehicles, and suggest measures to enhance its standing.

Static linkage

The question relates to India's space program, managed by the Department of Space, and its global competitiveness, touching upon national budgets, GDP share, and technological advancements in launch vehicles, satellites, and space applications.

Significance

Understanding the budgetary allocation and expenditure patterns of the Department of Space is crucial for assessing the growth and capabilities of India's space program. The focus on global competitiveness in launch capability, satellite manufacturing, and reusable launch vehicles indicates strategic priorities for national development and international collaboration in the space sector. This information is vital for policy-making, resource allocation, and identifying areas for future investment and research.