Space race: Get startup rivalry ready for lift-off

Isro's award of a satellite launcher contract to HAL will free its resources to focus on new frontier space-tech even as India holds its breath for what private competition will deliver

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India's space programme has taken a step forward. Our space agency Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) has outsourced the manufacture of an entire satellite launch system to another entityHindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), in this instance. This should accelerate our space thrust in terms of both commerce and knowhow. Sourcing components from third parties, to which Isro transfers design and technology, has been an integral part of its operations. From engineering majors L&T and Godrej Aerospace to specialists like MTAR Technologies and small electronics firms, over 500 companies have contributed to Isro's low-cost conquest of space. As its capabilities and needs grew, the government set up two new entities half a decade ago to facilitate private sector participation in space projects. While NewSpace India Ltd interfaces with various businesses (even as Antrix Corp markets Isro's services), the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre acts as the sector's supervisor. As the world moves ahead in space exploration, we must not just keep pace, b