Karnataka’s Department of Electronics, Information Technology, Biotechnology, and Science & Technology (ITBT) is set to highlight the state’s impressive advancements in space technology at the Bengaluru Space Expo 2024. Priyank Kharge, Minister for IT, BT, Rural Development, and Panchayat Raj, inaugurated the event, underscoring Karnataka’s role as a national leader in the space sector.
“Karnataka has cultivated a robust ecosystem driven by government policy, MSME support, and infrastructure development,” Kharge said. The expo, running from September 18-20, 2024, will showcase breakthrough innovations from startups and key government initiatives. Ekroop Caur, Secretary of the IT and BT Department, also emphasized Karnataka’s growing influence in space technology during her keynote address.
Caur elaborated on the various supportive programs and policies designed to foster innovation among startups. She reiterated the state government’s vision to transform Karnataka into a major hub for space technology, aiming to generate over USD 17 billion in economic value by capitalizing on its 40% share of India’s space market.
One of the key initiatives includes the establishment of a Centre of Excellence for space technologies, aimed at supporting and nurturing startups in the sector. The state is also strengthening its aerospace and defense manufacturing capabilities through new facilities and partnerships with educational institutions. Additionally, a dedicated state policy for the space sector is in development to boost investment and foster innovation.
Minister Kharge noted, “We are actively engaging with industry stakeholders to create a dynamic ecosystem that supports startups and MSMEs in space technology.”
A notable example of Karnataka’s growing prominence in space tech is Bengaluru-based startup Pixxel, which recently secured a contract with NASA under their USD 476 million commercial small satellite data acquisition program. This achievement showcases the state’s transformation into a vibrant hub for space technology innovation.
The Bengaluru Space Expo 2024 is poised to spotlight cutting-edge advancements in space technology and reaffirm Karnataka’s pivotal role in India’s space ambitions.