UPSC Prelims 2026 · Question 71 of 96

UPSC Prelims 2026 question on IN Space Private Space Sector

Consider the following statements with regard to involvement of private entities in India's space programme:

1. Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) is an autonomous agency formed to facilitate participation of private entities.

2. Agnikul Cosmos launched the world's first flight using 3D-printed rocket engine.

3. Skyroot Aerospace has developed liquid fuel for GSLV.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 1 and 2 only
  4. 1, 2 and 3
Show answer

Answer: C. 1 and 2 only

Verdict

Statements 1 and 2 are correct, so the answer is Option (c).

Analysis

IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre) was established in 2020 as an autonomous body under the Department of Space to promote, support, and authorize private sector participation in India's space ecosystem.

Statement by statement

Statement 1 is correct: The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) is an autonomous agency formed to facilitate participation of private entities. It was established in 2020 as a single-window autonomous agency to encourage, support, and authorize private sector participation in India's space activities.

Statement 2 is correct: Agnikul Cosmos launched the world's first flight using a 3D-printed rocket engine. Agnikul Cosmos achieved this milestone through its Agnibaan SOrTeD mission, which used a single-piece 3D-printed semi-cryogenic engine.

Statement 3 is incorrect: Skyroot Aerospace developed the Vikram-S suborbital rocket using solid propulsion technology. It has not developed liquid fuel systems for GSLV, whose cryogenic engines were developed by ISRO.

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