Karnataka has launched the country’s first state-led Centre of Excellence for Space Technology (CoE SpaceTech Foundation) in Bengaluru. This is a strategic step in scaling space innovation for commercial outcomes.

Set up by the Government of Karnataka through the Karnataka Innovation and Technology Society in collaboration with SIA-India, the Centre was inaugurated by Minister for Electronics, IT/BT, and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, Priyank Kharge.

The CoE SpaceTech Foundation has been established under a Memorandum of Agreement between KITS and SIA-India to drive advanced research and innovation in space technologies, industry-aligned training and talent development, startup incubation and ecosystem building, and cross-sector applications of space technologies.

Additionally, the Centre formalised strategic MoUs with Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Helogen Corporation, USA, ABLE (Association of Biotechnology Led Enterprises), Dassault Systèmes, and Idea Baaz.

Commenting on the launch, Govindrajan, Director, CoE SpaceTech Foundation, said the foundation aims to leverage space technologies to address challenges across agriculture, climate, disaster management, connectivity, pharma, life sciences, and national security.

“Our vision is to position Karnataka as a global reference hub for space technology through talent, innovation, incubation, and collaboration,” he further added.

The CoE will play a major role in enabling public-private collection, supporting startups, and unlocking new use cases for space technologies across sectors critical to India’s development.

Speaking at the launch, Priyank Kharge said, “With the launch of this Centre of Excellence for Space Technology, we are extending that leadership into one of the most strategic sectors of the future.

This Centre will play a critical role in positioning Karnataka as a key driver of India’s space economy.” He added that this can result in real-world applications, economic growth, and high-quality jobs.

Published on May 1, 2026