Tamil Nadu Aims for the Stars with New Space Hub

The Tamil Nadu government is moving forward with its vision to build a robust commercial space ecosystem by planning the establishment of a Space Vehicle Common Technical Facility Centre (SV-CTFC) in Thoothukudi.

The Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) has issued a tender for consultants to prepare a detailed project report for the facility, which will offer integration, testing, and fabrication services for satellite and launch vehicle development. TIDCO Managing Director, Sandeep Nanduri, confirmed that the centre will be situated at the SICPOT Industrial Park in Allikulam.

This initiative aligns with Chief Minister Stalin’s earlier announcement of a 250-acre space park and complements ISRO’s upcoming small satellite launch port in Kulasekarapattinam. The governance of the facility will be managed through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) or an autonomous body, with participation from government, industry, and research institutions. The business model will include revenue streams such as user charges, rental income, training programs, and R&D collaborations.

Consultants are required to propose phased investments, diverse funding strategies, and sustainability measures. "IN-SPACe will provide a grant of Rs 100 crore," said MD Nanduri, with final funding decisions to be made following the report submission.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.