Gujarat Eyes Satellite Launchpad in Kutch or Dholera Following Launch of SpaceTech Policy

Gujarat Eyes Satellite Launchpad in Kutch or Dholera Following Launch of SpaceTech Policy

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After becoming the first Indian state to roll out a dedicated SpaceTech Policy, Gujarat is now taking the next big step—planning to set up a satellite launchpad. The state government has shortlisted Kutch and Dholera as potential sites for this ambitious project.

Setting up a launchpad requires navigating intricate technical and regulatory landscapes. To facilitate a seamless execution, Gujarat will collaborate closely with the central government, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and other key national stakeholders.

This move gains added importance as In-SPACe—the national agency responsible for enabling private sector participation in India’s space initiatives—is based in Ahmedabad. The organization has shown keen interest in the project, which complements its broader vision of expanding private access to space infrastructure and fostering innovation.

Officials highlighted that Gujarat’s Space Tech Policy includes a comprehensive support framework—offering both logistical and financial assistance to companies involved in everything from satellite hardware production to the development of command centres and ground infrastructure. The proposed launchpad is expected to reinforce Gujarat’s growing stature in India’s dynamic space sector.

With institutions like ISRO and the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) anchoring India’s space research, Gujarat is now charting a bold new course by planning its own satellite launchpad. The move aligns with the state’s recently launched SpaceTech Policy, designed to position Gujarat as a central hub for space-related activities in the country.

Senior officials have revealed that Kutch and Dholera are under consideration as optimal sites for the proposed launchpad. “Our objective is to establish a dedicated launch facility that can serve upcoming space missions, including those for communication, earth observation, and even space tourism,” a government source noted. Preliminary evaluations suggest that both Kutch and Dholera meet key criteria for such infrastructure.

Given the technical sophistication and stringent regulatory framework required for space launch operations, the state plans to work in close coordination with the Union government, ISRO, and other key national authorities to ensure the project is implemented to the highest standards.

The initiative is especially relevant because In-SPACe—the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center—is headquartered in Ahmedabad. This autonomous agency under the Department of Space plays a pivotal role in enabling private sector participation by offering access to launch vehicles, infrastructure, and regulatory support. In-SPACe has already expressed interest in Gujarat’s launchpad project, viewing it as a vital step toward expanding private involvement in space activities.

According to officials, Gujarat’s new policy includes comprehensive support mechanisms—both fiscal and non-fiscal—for the entire value chain of the space industry. This spans everything from satellite component and propulsion system manufacturing to building control centres, ground stations, and space-tech application hubs. The planned launchpad is expected to significantly boost the state’s role in shaping India’s future in space exploration.

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