Context:
The Union Budget 2026–27 has allocated ₹13,416.20 crore to the Department of Space, aiming to strengthen India’s space science, deep-space exploration, and astrophysics research infrastructure. However, concerns have emerged regarding underutilisation of allocated funds and delays in major scientific projects.
Key Highlights:
- Budget Allocation
- The Department of Space received ₹13,416.20 crore in the 2026–27 Budget.
- The allocation focuses on deep-space exploration, astronomical research, and infrastructure development.
- New Telescope Facilities
- Plans include building two advanced telescope facilities to strengthen India’s observational capabilities.
- The objective is to enhance independent astronomical research and reduce reliance on foreign observatories.
- Key Scientific Infrastructure Projects
- Completion of the COSMOS-2 planetarium in Amaravati.
- Upgradation of control systems of the Himalayan Chandra Telescope (HCT).
- Strengthening Research Ecosystem
- India’s Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT) near Pune continues to play a major role in radio astronomy research.
- Integration of AI-driven data processing centres is improving analysis of astronomical data.
- Concerns Raised by Experts
- Experts point out underutilisation of previously allocated funds.
- Delays in project execution may slow India’s progress in advanced space science research.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Department of Space
- Responsible for space research and satellite programmes in India.
- Oversees Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
- IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre)
- Established in 2020.
- Promotes private sector participation in India’s space sector.
- Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT)
- Located near Pune, Maharashtra.
- One of the largest radio telescope arrays in the world.
- Himalayan Chandra Telescope (HCT)
- Located at Hanle in Ladakh.
- Operated by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics.
- Astrophysics
- Study of celestial bodies and physical processes in the universe.
- Deep-Space Exploration
- Exploration of distant regions of space such as galaxies, stars, and planets beyond Earth’s orbit.
Relevant Mains Points:
- Importance of Space Science Research
- Space research enhances scientific knowledge of the universe.
- Supports advancements in communication, navigation, climate monitoring, and disaster management.
- Need for Indigenous Astronomical Infrastructure
- India currently lacks sub-millimeter wavelength telescopes, limiting its ability to study certain cosmic phenomena.
- Building domestic facilities strengthens scientific autonomy and technological capacity.
- Role of Public–Private Partnerships
- Institutions such as IN-SPACe encourage private sector innovation in space technology.
- PPP models can accelerate space technology development and commercialization.
- Governance and Resource Utilisation Challenges
- Budget allocations must be matched with efficient project execution and financial management.
- Delays reduce scientific competitiveness and innovation capacity.
- Way Forward
- Improve financial planning and project monitoring in space programmes.
- Strengthen international collaboration in space science.
- Encourage private sector participation and technology startups in space research.
UPSC Relevance:
- GS Paper III – Science & Technology: Space technology and research infrastructure.
- GS Paper II – Governance: Public expenditure and scientific policy.
- Prelims: ISRO, IN-SPACe, GMRT, space research institutions.