Antariksh Prayogshala

Recently, the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) issued a Request for Proposal (RfP) to establish Antariksh Prayogshala (Space Labs) in selected academic institutions across India. This marks a significant step towards strengthening India’s academic and research ecosystem in the space sector.

About Antariksh Prayogshala (Space Labs)

Antariksh Prayogshala is a first-of-its-kind initiative launched by IN-SPACe to create state-of-the-art space laboratories within Indian academic institutions. The initiative aims to provide hands-on, practical training to students pursuing space technology–related courses.

Objectives of the Initiative

The core objectives of Antariksh Prayogshala include:

• Developing skilled manpower in space science and technology.

• Enabling meaningful industry–academia collaboration.

• Supporting India’s long-term vision of becoming a leading global space economy.

• Providing access to advanced space infrastructure for education, research, and innovation.

Coverage and Regional Representation

Under the scheme, up to seven academic institutions will be selected in a phased manner from different regions of the country. To ensure balanced regional representation, one Space Lab is proposed in each zone of India.

These laboratories will also be made available to Non-Governmental Entities (NGEs) operating within the respective zones.

Financial Support and Funding Pattern

IN-SPACe will provide financial assistance of up to 75% of the total project cost, subject to a maximum limit of ?5 crore per institution. The funding will be released on a milestone-linked basis, ensuring accountability and timely implementation.

Selection Process

The selection of institutions will take place in two stages:

1. Initial screening based on prescribed eligibility criteria.

2. Evaluation and ranking of shortlisted institutions by an Empowered Committee (EC).

Final selections will be made on a zone-wise basis to ensure geographical balance.

Key Facts about IN-SPACe

IN-SPACe is a single-window, independent nodal agency functioning as an autonomous body under the Department of Space (DOS). It was established as part of India’s space sector reforms to promote private sector participation.

Roles and Responsibilities of IN-SPACe

IN-SPACe is responsible for promoting, enabling, authorising, and supervising space activities of Non-Governmental Entities (NGEs). Its key functions include:

• Authorising NGEs to build launch vehicles and satellites and provide space-based services.

• Facilitating sharing of space infrastructure and facilities under DOS/ISRO.

• Supporting the creation of new space infrastructure.

• Acting as an interface between ISRO and private players.

• Assessing the needs of private industry, startups, and educational and research institutions, in coordination with ISRO.

Conclusion

The Antariksh Prayogshala (Space Labs) initiative represents a transformative step in integrating academia, industry, and India’s space ecosystem. By providing advanced infrastructure, financial support, and institutional collaboration, it is poised to nurture innovation, skill development, and research, thereby strengthening India’s position in the global space economy