Bengaluru: Karnataka’s IT-BT Minister Priyank Kharge on wednesday highlighted about the state positioning itself as a key player in the space technology industry, aiming to generate $17 billion in economic value by capturing 40% of the national market share.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Bengaluru Space Expo 2024, held at the Bangalore International Exhibition Center on Wednesday, Minister Priyank Kharge emphasized the state’s commitment to fostering innovation and development in the space sector.
Kharge highlighted the government’s role in building an ecosystem that supports space technology through progressive policies, MSME support, and infrastructure development. “We are creating an environment for future space technology, making Karnataka a hub for this industry,” he said.
The state has already made significant strides in the space sector, with the government working on a dedicated state policy for space technologies. This policy is expected to attract investment, encourage innovation, and establish a center for space technologies. Kharge noted that Karnataka has emerged as a driving force in the space industry, thanks to government support for space technology startups and businesses.
A recent partnership between Bengaluru-based spacetech startup PixCell and NASA, as part of a $476 million commercial program, further reinforces Karnataka’s growing influence in the global space sector. The collaboration showcases the state’s evolution from a hub for ISRO-linked startups to a global leader in space technology.
Kharge underscored that the Bengaluru Space Expo 2024 serves as a platform to showcase the state’s advancements in space technology, while also reaffirming its commitment to contributing to India’s ambitious space goals.
