Opening up the space

Pvt investment will increase opportunities

The government’s decision to allow the private sector to play a larger role in the country's space activities is welcome. Permission to use the facilities of the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) will relieve companies of the burden of going overseas to test equipment, perform launches, and access geospatial data. In addition, Isro, which tenders out much of its equipment, will actively seek partnerships in projects across various areas. A careful delineation of regulations to ensure consistency and predictability will be required to provide a level playing field for private players in satellite launches and space-based services. New legislation defining