India aims to make space debris-free by 2030

India is emerging as one of the leading nations in the field of removing space debris. Union Minister of State for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences (Independent Charge) Dr. Jitendra Singh announced today that India aims to make space debris-free by the year 2030. He stated that an Indian startup is working on developing cutting-edge technology to make space safer and more sustainable.

Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated the 'Base-1' facility of 'Cosmoserve Space' at VSD Tech Park in Gachibowli, Hyderabad. He joined the programme as the chief guest virtually from Kartavya Bhavan in New Delhi. On this occasion, Telangana Government's IT and Industries Minister Shri D. Sridhar Babu was present as the special guest, while the founder and CEO of Cosmoserve Space, Dr. Chiranjeevi Fahindra, was also present.

The Minister stated that India's growing capabilities in active space debris removal reflect the country's increasing global leadership in space technology and its commitment to ensuring a safe space environment for all of humanity. He added that this initiative by Cosmoserve Space embodies the spirit of 'Vishwa Bandhu Bharat', demonstrating India's commitment to space sustainability for the benefit of humanity, transcending national borders.

Providing information about Cosmoserve Space's 'Base-1' facility, Dr. Jitendra Singh said that it is a comprehensive and state-of-the-art facility spread over approximately 14,800 square feet. Here, space robots are designed, manufactured, and tested in space-like conditions. The facility is operated through its mission control. Specialized capabilities such as orbital rendezvous and capture labs, space robotics innovation labs, microgravity simulation platforms, and satellite integration clean rooms are available at this centre. This facility symbolises a significant advancement in India's private space capabilities.

Old satellites and rocket fragments operating in space rotate at very high speeds, posing a major risk to active satellites and space stations. Dr. Singh praised the work done on 'Mission Embrace' by the Cosmoserve Space team. Under this mission, 'soft robotic petals' were tested in space in July 2026, within one year of the company's establishment. This technology will function like a robotic arm, helping to capture debris to destroy it or move it to a safe orbit. The Minister noted that this team is advancing the experience gained in ISRO and the Gaganyaan programme as a collaborative model in the private sector.

Speaking about the development of India's private space sector, Dr. Jitendra Singh stated that Cosmoserve Space's partnerships with Pixel for satellite systems, Druv Aerospace Netherlands for propulsion systems, and Skyroot Aerospace for launch services demonstrate a culture of collaboration for complete solutions in the field of space technology. Indian startups are developing integrated space missions by combining indigenous payloads, battery technology, satellite systems, and private launch capabilities, and are setting global standards.

Attributing the transformative reforms in the space sector to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Minister said that this journey began approximately five to six years ago. Following the establishment of New Space India Limited and IN-SPACe, there has been a fundamental change in the country's space ecosystem. Providing statistical data, he stated that India's space economy has grown to approximately 9 billion dollars and is estimated to reach 40 to 45 billion dollars in the next decade. Furthermore, India's space startup ecosystem has expanded from a single digit to nearly 450 ventures.

Dr. Singh emphasised that there has never been a lack of scientific talent or technological capability in India, but a conducive ecosystem was needed to bring out the unlimited potential of the youth. He called upon local and international investors to participate more actively in the space sector. Additionally, he requested increasing philanthropic contributions to accelerate innovation in science and research, strengthen collaboration, and support emerging technologies.

Speaking on India's ultimate objective, the Minister said that India's goal is to achieve technological self-reliance and sovereign capabilities along with international partnerships. The success of the Chandrayaan and Gaganyaan programmes proves that India is capable of successfully executing complex and sophisticated missions at a very low cost. He further added that India's space capabilities are improving life on Earth by being utilised in Gati Shakti, Smart Cities, disaster preparedness, and many other sectors, providing direct benefits to citizens.

Finally, Dr. Jitendra Singh congratulated the Cosmoserve Space team for their work and stated that such initiatives will strengthen India's global leadership and enhance its geopolitical prestige. He also expressed his eagerness to visit the facility in person and interact with the team soon.