Antariksh Prayogshala: India’s New Space Lab Revolution

The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) has issued a Request for Proposal (RfP) for the establishment of Antariksh Prayogshala (Space Labs) at selected academic institutions across India, with the objective of strengthening the country’s space technology ecosystem.

According to IN-SPACe, the initiative aims to create dedicated space laboratories within Indian academic institutions to provide hands-on training and practical exposure to students pursuing space technology–related courses. The programme is also designed to promote closer collaboration between academia and industry, supporting India’s long-term ambition of becoming a leading global space economy.

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. IN-SPACe will provide financial assistance of up to 75 per cent of the total project cost, subject to a maximum of ₹5 crore per institution. The funding will be disbursed on a milestone-linked basis, the agency said.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.