Space 2.0: Recent Space Sector Reforms In India

Conventionally the satellite industry comprised of spacecraft manufacturing, launch vehicles, satellite operation etc. With the rise of satellite-based internet, geospatial intelligence, satellite-based M2M technology, satellite-based backhaul for 5G etc., space sector is undergoing a paradigmatic shift.
India leapfrogged into Space 2.0 activities taking a number of steps to engage private sector more actively.
Space 1.0 included handholding of private sector where it was passively involved in activities like spare parts manufacturing other auxiliary services.
Space 2.0 activities involves private sector actively in which it will design, develop and market space-based products including but not restricted to satellite payloads, launch vehicles, even building space ports.
The 4 pillars of space sector reforms are
the freedom of innovation to the private sector
the role of the government as an enabler
to prepare the youth for the future
to see the space sector as a resource for the progress of the common man

Steps Taken Under Space 2.0

Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center to facilitate and regulate private sector participation in the space sector.
It is an independent nodal agency under Department of Space. To act as single-window agency for private sector involvement

Establishment of New Space India Limited (NSIL) under the Department of Space as commercial arm of ISRO.
NSIL is a wholly-owned subsidiary of ISRO taking up its operational aspects of ISRO facilitating private participation in space.

Commercial aspects of ISRO providing services such as satellite launches, mission management, and other related services.
Enables technology transfer from ISRO to private players
Facilitate marketing of space-based products

Established in 2021
It is an industry body for space and satellite industries (similar to NASSCOM for software industry)

Objective: To develop innovative solutions for the Defense Forces in the space domain through private sector participation.
In line with space sector reforms initiated as a part of Vision 2030 announced in 2019 budget.

The following table provides some examples of private participation in Space 2.0

1st ever private space mission of India by Skyroot Aerospace

Vikram-S was a test-flight for Vikram Series of Rockets to be launched in the coming years.

It was a single-stage solid fueled rocket that did a sub-orbital flight.

Vikram Series:

Series of 3 rockets in development to launch small satellites upto 815 Kg to SSPO
Solid-fuel rockets built on upgradeable architecture with carbon composite and 3D-printed motors
Can be assembled and launched in less than 72 hours.
Support communication services such as broadband internet, GPS, IoT from space and earth imaging.

Raman Engine: 1st private liquid propulsion engine developed by Skyroot

Kalam 5 engine: Solid-fuel engine

Dhawan engine: Cryogenic

Agnibaan: SSLV powered by a semi-cryogenic engine, Agnilet. (liquid kerosene as fuel and liquid oxygen)
Agnilet engine: world 1st single piece 3-d printed rocket engine)

India’s First Private Space Vehicle Launchpad