India to Establish 7 Space Labs in Universities to Train Next-Gen Rocket Scientists

In a major push to build a robust talent pipeline for India’s rapidly expanding space sector, the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (INSPACe) has invited proposals to set up seven advanced space laboratories, known as Antariksh Prayogshala, at higher education institutions across the country.

The initiative, reviewed by Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh, aims to provide hands-on training to students in critical areas such as satellite design, rocketry, mission planning, and space technology. These labs will bridge the gap between academia and industry, fostering practical skills among the next generation of rocket scientists and space engineers.

INSPACe has floated a Request for Proposal (RfP) for the first phase of the project. Up to seven institutions will be selected in a phased manner, with one lab proposed per geographical zone of India. The government will provide funding support of up to 75% of the project cost, capped at ₹5 crore per institution.

“Antariksh Prayogshala is intended to enable meaningful industry-academia collaboration and support India’s long-term vision of becoming a leading global space economy,” said Dr. Vinod Kumar, Director of the Promotion Directorate at INSPACe.

The labs will offer state-of-the-art facilities for students pursuing courses in space science and technology, giving them real-world exposure to building and testing small satellites (like CanSats and CubeSats), rocket systems, and related technologies.

This move comes as India’s private space sector grows rapidly, with increasing participation from startups in satellite launches, earth observation, and launch vehicle development.The initiative is expected to strengthen the overall space technology ecosystem and align with national goals under the Indian Space Policy.

Selected institutions will host these specialized labs to nurture innovation and produce skilled professionals ready to contribute to ISRO’s missions and the booming commercial space industry.

Proposals from eligible universities and colleges are currently being invited, with the selection process focusing on institutions that demonstrate strong academic programs in engineering, physics, or aerospace-related fields.

This development shows India’s commitment to democratizing space education and turning academic campuses into launchpads for future space professionals.

Naorem Mohen

Naorem Mohen is the Editor of Signpost News. Explore his views and opinion on X: @laimacha.