India’s space industry is opening up new frontiers for private players, and there’s plenty of room for startups to thrive, said former ISRO chairman Dr. S. Somanath during a lecture at Panjab University.

Speaking at the university’s Law Auditorium as part of the PU Colloquium Series, Dr. Somanath highlighted how the Indian Space Policy 2023 is reshaping the landscape from a government-dominated model to a more inclusive, stakeholder-driven ecosystem.

Now serving as the Vikram Sarabhai Distinguished Professor and President-elect of the Aeronautical Society of India, Dr. Somanath emphasized the role of academia in shaping the future of India’s space ambitions. He encouraged universities to take part in developing a self-sustaining research and industrial framework.

Dr. Somanath also shared insights on upcoming ISRO missions to Mars and Venus, development of reusable launch vehicles, and the goal of establishing the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) by 2035. India, he said, hopes to achieve permanent human presence in space by 2047.

Beyond missions, he pointed out how satellite technology is being used to solve real-world challenges. From crop monitoring and irrigation planning to disaster management and insurance, platforms like Krishi-DSS, SASYA, and Bhuvan are already helping farmers and government agencies make informed decisions.

The event was attended by students, researchers, and university faculty. PU Vice Chancellor Professor Renu Vig presided over the session, alongside other senior officials including Prof. Yojna Rawat, Prof. Y P Verma, Prof. Meenkashi Goyal, and Prof. Desh Deepak Singh.

Honoured by PEC

Earlier that day, Dr. Somanath was awarded an honorary Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) degree by Punjab Engineering College (Deemed to be University), Chandigarh. The ceremony was led by PEC Board of Governors Chairman Rajinder Gupta and Director Prof. Rajesh Kumar Bhatia.

He also unveiled a commemorative plaque in memory of aerospace pioneer and PEC alumnus Satish Dhawan. Reflecting on their work together during key PSLV missions, Dr. Somanath praised Dhawan’s legacy and contribution to India’s space programme.

In his address, he called for stronger partnerships between academia and industry to convert research into tangible national advancements. He also spoke briefly on India’s growing efforts in human spaceflight and its importance for future exploration.

The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Panjab University Vice Chancellor Prof. Renu Vig, former PU VC Prof. A.K. Grover, INSA Emeritus Professor Dr. K.P. Singh, and other senior academics.

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