space labs in universities: Centre reviews plan for seven labs
Union Minister Jitendra Singh on April 26, 2026 reviewed a plan to set up seven space laboratories in universities and colleges across India. The labs will offer hands-on exposure in satellite systems, rocketry and mission design to students and researchers.
Officials say the move aims to build a skilled pipeline for India's growing private space sector, which has drawn over USD 600 million in private investment in the past five years (2021–2026). The number of private space startups has jumped from single digits in 2019 to more than 400 by early 2026 .
What the space labs in universities will focus on
The proposed labs will cover satellite systems, payload manufacturing, launch vehicle systems and space cybersecurity. Training will include mission design, ground infrastructure work and hands-on assembly or testing of small satellite components.
Details such as exact host institutions, timelines, selection criteria and per-lab funding are yet to be announced by the authorities.
Funding, training and recent government steps for the space ecosystem
The government has launched a Rs 500 crore Technology Adoption Fund to help early-stage innovations reach commercial readiness. So far, 17 specialised training programmes have been completed and nearly 900 participants have been certified in areas like satellite manufacturing and launch vehicle systems.
| Item | Figure/Status |
|---|---|
| Planned labs | 7 |
| Private investment (past 5 years) | > USD 600 million |
| Space startups (early 2026) | > 400 |
| Technology Adoption Fund | Rs 500 crore |
| Training programmes completed | 17 |
| Participants certified | ~900 |
Who will benefit from the space labs in universities
Students enrolled in engineering, physics and related programmes at host universities will get practical experience not usually available in classroom labs. The labs are intended to support hands-on projects, student-built payloads and collaboration with industry partners as they emerge.
Officials emphasise the labs are part of broader reforms to open the space sector to private players and to create skilled talent for launch, manufacturing and in-orbit services.
What remains unclear
The statement reviewed by the minister did not specify the exact locations, the timeline for setting up each lab, selection rules for colleges or how long each training course will run.