IN-SPACe released the Norms, Guidelines and Procedures for Implementation of Indian Space Policy in respect of Authorization of Space Activities (NGP) document. In this Opinion Piece for Deccan Herald, I explain the implications of this policy document for the Indian space industry.
From the article:
The guidelines describe the process of this authorisation for the different areas of space-based technologies such as satellite communication, rocket launch services, and earth observation. Yet key areas such as scientific missions, and positioning, navigation, and timing services, which enable GPS and air traffic control, are missing from the guidelines…
Space-based services range from telecommunication services to military applications to cybersecurity, and fall under different ministries and departments under the Government of India. Though IN-SPACe is a ‘single window agency’ for authorising space activities, private players must seek separate clearances from relevant ministries even after getting a provisional authorisation from IN-SPACe.
…Ultimately, India needs a space regulation Act that addresses the gaps in the guidelines. Its formulation should be a consultative process with inputs from all stakeholders. Together, these legislation can democratise the space governance ecosystem, and provide the necessary legal clarity that the private sector expects before undertaking risky ventures. The path to a burgeoning private space sector in India starts with the right regulatory environment.
Read the full article: https://www.deccanherald.com/opinion/new-guidelines-could-hamper-indias-promising-space-industry-3035235