Gujarat is making an ambitious push into India’s fast-growing space sector, with plans to establish a satellite manufacturing facility and a potential new launch site along its coast.
The initiative, backed by an estimated investment of Rs 500 crore, aims to position the state as a key hub in the country’s expanding space ecosystem.
State Science and Technology Minister Arjun Modhwadia announced in the Assembly that a site near Kodinar in Gir Somnath district has been identified as suitable for a satellite launch centre. Located between Diu and Kodinar along the Arabian Sea coast, the site has been assessed for its potential to support future launches, similar in function to India’s primary spaceport at Satish Dhawan Space Centre.
The selection process involved the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Center, which indicated that the region holds promise for such infrastructure. If developed, the facility could significantly boost India’s launch capacity and support increasing demand for satellite deployment.
The move aligns with the Gujarat Space Technology Policy announced in April 2025, making Gujarat the first Indian state to introduce a dedicated space policy.
The policy focuses on building a strong ecosystem for satellite research, manufacturing, and innovation, with an emphasis on attracting private investment.
As part of this broader vision, the state is also developing the Gujarat Space Park near Sanand, spread across around 100 acres. The park is expected to host companies involved in satellite production and related technologies, creating a cluster for space industry players.
A private firm has already initiated plans to set up a small satellite manufacturing unit with an investment of about 500 crore. Officials say the facility will handle the entire satellite lifecycle, from design and engineering to assembly and testing, potentially making it India’s first end-to-end private satellite manufacturing plant.
With global demand for satellites rising rapidly for internet, communication, and Earth observation services, Gujarat’s initiative is seen as a timely step.
Experts believe that strengthening domestic capabilities in both manufacturing and launch infrastructure will be crucial for India to remain competitive in the global space race.
