India plans to expand its space infrastructure with four functional launch pads by 2029, according to Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman V. Narayanan, who announced the plan on 25 October 2026. The expansion aims to meet the growing domestic and global demand for satellite launches and strengthen India’s space capabilities.
Key Points
- New SSLV Complex: A dedicated 2,000-acre Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) complex is being developed at Kulasekarapattinam in the Thoothukudi (Tuticorin) district of Tamil Nadu.
- New Launch Infrastructure: The facility will include launch pads, integration buildings, rail-track systems, and telemetry, tracking and command facilities.
- Third Launch Pad: A third launch pad is planned at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, to support next-generation launch vehicles.
- Private Sector Participation: ISRO will collaborate with private companies and startups, transfer technological expertise, and support the growth of commercial space operations.
- Employment Opportunities: Greater private-sector participation is expected to promote economic growth and create thousands of high-technology jobs.
The expansion is part of India’s broader efforts to strengthen its space programme and increase its capacity to launch satellites for domestic and international customers. ISRO will continue to operate as a government agency while encouraging greater private-sector participation in the space industry.
