In a significant move for India”s space sector, the first state-level Centre of Excellence (CoE) dedicated to space technology has been established in Karnataka. This initiative, spearheaded by the Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society (KITS) in partnership with SIA-India, a prominent association within the space industry, is focused on fostering and accelerating startups in the space realm.
Located in Bengaluru, the Centre is designed to enhance the country”s space innovation ecosystem through targeted efforts in capacity building, research and development, and startup acceleration over the next five years, from 2025 to 2030. Karnataka already hosts esteemed institutions such as ISRO, IISc, DRDO, and various leading public sector undertakings.
“This Centre of Excellence represents more than just an institution; it serves as a strategic hub that will solidify Karnataka”s position as a leader in the global space economy,” stated Dr. Subba Rao Pavuluri, President of SIA-India. The CoE is expected to act as a transformative center for nurturing and fast-tracking space technology startups by providing prototype funding, which will assist in converting innovative ideas into viable market products.
Additionally, the Centre will focus on upskilling professionals with short-term courses aligned with industry needs and will offer certification for students through comprehensive, long-duration programs. The CoE aims to contribute to peer-reviewed research published in international journals and to commercialize innovative products and solutions relating to satellite components, data analytics, and AI-based tools.
To further enhance its impact, the Centre will pursue strategic collaborations with both domestic and international organizations, facilitating technology transfers, joint ventures, and collaborative missions. “This initiative will not only support the incubation of startups but also bolster research and development in satellite manufacturing, launch systems, and downstream applications, effectively connecting innovators with ISRO and IN-SPACe resources for practical deployment,” explained Anil Prakash, Director General of SIA-India.
Moreover, the CoE will introduce India”s inaugural State Space Innovation Index, aimed at assessing policy readiness and the investment landscape. By establishing a model for public-private partnerships, this Centre is poised to position Karnataka as a launchpad for the next generation of space enterprises in India and reinforce the state”s leadership in the global space economy,” Prakash added.
The CoE will be led by D. S. Govindrajan, a Board Member of SIA-India, who will oversee its development and execution in collaboration with state and industry stakeholders.
