India’s Space Budget Grows to INR 13,416 Crore, Space Sector Expands Across Governance, Defence, and Agriculture
India’s space budget has increased from ₹5,615 crore in 2013-14 to ₹13,416 crore in 2025-26, marking a 138.93% rise, according to a press release. The space sector has expanded its role beyond satellite launches to applications in governance, defence, agriculture, and disaster management.
At the ‘Good Governance Conclave’ organized by the Indian Institute of Democratic Leadership, Union Minister Jitendra Singh highlighted various initiatives utilizing space technology. He cited the Swamitva Yojana, which uses satellite mapping for land record management, as an example of its role in governance. Other applications include urban planning, weather forecasting, and communication services.
India’s space sector has seen significant private sector participation, supported by organizations such as the National Space Innovation and Applications (NSIL) and In-SPACe. The industry has grown to $8 billion and is projected to reach $44 billion in the coming years.
In defence, space technology is used for border surveillance and intelligence gathering. India has also launched 433 foreign satellites, generating revenue of $192 million USD and €272 million.
The upcoming Gaganyaan Mission, India’s first human spaceflight program, is set to begin trials with the ROBO Mission by late 2025. Four astronauts have been selected for the program, with one visiting the International Space Station. Future plans include establishing the Bharat Antariksh Station by 2035 and a Moon mission by 2040.
India’s space initiatives also extend to climate monitoring and space debris management. The government continues to invest in AI, quantum technology, and other advanced scientific fields to support the space sector’s growth.