The India Space Congress (ISC) 2024, organized by SIA-India, congress explored various engaging topics, including geospatial insights, standardizations, and space sustainability.
A significant highlight was the notable increase in women’s participation, which surged by 15 percent over the last two editions. There was a special panel titled “Space for Women and Women for Space,” featuring trailblazing women in Indian space. They shared insights into their innovative projects, challenges, and visions, inspiring the next generation of women innovators and driving the industry forward.
Leadership Insights
Dr Subba Rao Pavuluri, President of SIA-India, emphasized India’s aspiration to become a global hub for satellite manufacturing, contributing to a “Viksit Bharat” by 2047. “India aims to integrate into the global supply chain, benefitting all through our advancements in satellite technology,” Dr Pavuluri stated.
Lt. Gen. PJS Pannu, former Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff and chairman of Defence Space Committee SIA-India, highlighted the pivotal role of satellite technology in the Indian Army. He elaborated on the significance of Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) services, which provide real-time positioning crucial for battlefield efficiency. He also stressed the importance of cybersecurity and space applications in defending against cyberattacks, enhancing operational effectiveness in modern warfare.
Dadang Hidayat, Minister Counsellor, Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia to India, shared insights on bilateral cooperation in space technology and its potential to drive innovation and economic growth.
Dr Olivier Fink, CDA, Embassy of Switzerland to India and Bhutan, discussed space sustainability and Switzerland’s growth in the space industry.
International Collaborations
A significant announcement at the ISC 2024 was the collaboration between Indonesia and India in the space sector. Pasifik Satelite Nusantara (PSN), an Indonesian company specializing in space-based communication, and Elena Geo, an Indian company focusing on NavIC-based Multi GNSS Solutions, have partnered to leverage each other’s capabilities for solutions in the South Asian and ASEAN regions. This collaboration has the potential to generate US$100 million in trade in the near future.
Switzerland Space
This session presented the dynamic Swiss space ecosystem, emphasizing opportunities for bottom-up collaborations and offering essential insights into establishing businesses in Switzerland. The Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement between India and the EFTA countries, including Switzerland, opens new areas of engagement.
Space Startup Mixer
The congress also featured a Space Startup Mixer session, connecting entrepreneurs, mentors, investors, and industry experts. This platform is dedicated to fuelling the ambitions of visionary startups, fostering collaboration, innovation, and the boundless potential of entrepreneurial endeavours. Participants unlocked opportunities, accessed resources, and accelerated their paths to success in the space industry.