Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences Jitendra Singh informed the Rajya Sabha that the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has launched several initiatives to actively involve students and young researchers in satellite development, payload experiments, and space missions.
The programs aim to give students hands-on exposure to advanced space technologies and strengthen India’s future space workforce.
Student Satellite Programs Encourage Hands-On Learning
The minister said ISRO has introduced special programs enabling students to work on real-world space technology projects, including satellite design and mission experiments.
Under the Student Satellite Program led by the U R Rao Satellite Centre, academic institutions and student teams are encouraged to design and develop satellites under the technical guidance of ISRO scientists.
These student-built satellites also receive integration support and launch opportunities through ISRO missions, providing practical experience in space technology development.
Internship and Project Training Opportunities for Students
Dr. Jitendra Singh said internship and project training programs are available for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students from recognized institutions across India.
These programs allow students to work directly at ISRO centres, gaining hands-on research experience in advanced space technologies.
Space Technology Incubation Centres Strengthen Academic Collaboration
To promote academic participation, Space Technology Incubation Centres (STICs) have been established in different regions of the country.
These centres encourage collaborative research between universities and ISRO scientists, enabling students to develop indigenous space technologies with expert guidance.
IN-SPACe Encouraging Student Participation in Space Sector
The minister also highlighted the role of Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre in encouraging student participation in the space sector.
IN-SPACe has organized student competitions focused on designing CanSat-sized satellites and model rockets, with participation from around 850 students across 97 teams.
11 Student Satellites Successfully Launched
Dr. Jitendra Singh informed the House that IN-SPACe has so far authorized 17 student satellites and payloads, out of which 11 have already been successfully launched.
Participating institutions include:
- Indian Institute of Astrophysics
- Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology
- RV College of Engineering
- Amity University Maharashtra
- MIT World Peace University
- Assam Don Bosco University
- CV Raman Global University
These missions reflect growing national participation in student-led space programs.
Regional Space Academic Centres Established
To make space research more inclusive, ISRO has established Regional Academic Centres for Space that serve as regional outreach centres for ISRO programs.
These centres aim to introduce students from smaller towns and colleges to space science and technology opportunities.
AICTE Approves Short-Term Space Technology Courses
The minister also informed that All India Council for Technical Education has approved short-term courses in space technology to strengthen space education across India.
Additionally, a national committee has been formed to promote space technology education in line with the
