India boosts space sector with private investment and focus on small satellites

India is expanding its space sector by allowing private companies to participate and establishing a $119 million venture fund for startups. The focus is on developing small satellites and data services for sectors like communications and agriculture. Indian companies are already launching small satellites and providing satellite data for various applications. The government aims to support these ventures, with the potential for significant savings in industries such as air traffic management. Despite recent growth, India holds only 2% of the global commercial space market. Established competitors from the U.S., Russia, and China present challenges, but Indian firms are optimistic about scaling their solutions regionally and globally.