ISRO to Set Up ₹10,000 Crore Launch Pad in Gujarat for PSLV and SSLV Missions
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is poised to dramatically expand its launch capabilities with the construction of a major new spaceport in Gujarat. Valued at approximately ₹10,000 crore, this facility will be designed for both its workhorse Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and the nimble Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)—a bold leap that will bolster India’s space infrastructure and industrial ecosystem.
A Strategic Acquisition of Gujarat
After extensive feasibility assessments, ISRO has zeroed in on coastal regions of Kutch or Dholera as ideal locations, offering wide open coastal buffer zones and relatively unobstructed flight corridors. The move aligns with Gujarat’s recently unveiled SpaceTech Policy, aimed at creating a friendly environment for private-sector investment in space. Supporting this initiative is IN‑SPACe, the Indian regulatory body based in Ahmedabad, which will play a pivotal role in guiding private participation alongside ISRO in this endeavour.
Dual-Use Launch Capability
This upcoming launch complex is being planned as a shared facility, integrating two versatile launch systems. First is the PSLV, ISRO’s dependable medium-lift vehicle responsible for over 60 successful missions—including Chandrayaan‑1, Aditya‑L1, and the Mars Orbiter Mission—with a payload capacity of up to 1,750 kg to sun-synchronous orbit . Second is the SSLV, specifically developed for small satellites (up to 500 kg to a 500 km low-earth orbit) with exceptionally fast turnaround times of just 72 hours . While SSLV currently operates from Sriharikota and Kulasekarapattinam, a Gujarat facility would significantly diversify India’s launch geography.
Infrastructure & Economic Vision
ISRO envisions constructing comprehensive infrastructure: from advanced rocket assembly buildings and satellite processing units to integrated ground‑station and payload adaptation amenities. Inspired by SSLV’s model—characterised by modular assembly, minimal infrastructure, and a lean, automated operations crew—the new complex will embody modern, scalable space infrastructure suited for both national missions and commercial activity .
The estimated ₹10,000 crore investment will not only cement ISRO’s domestic reach but also fuel regional development, drawing related industries, creating technical jobs, and fostering scientific collaboration.
Complementing the National Space Ecosystem
Gujarat’s new spaceport will join ISRO’s trio of operational launch sites: Sriharikota (PSLV, GSLV), Kulasekarapattinam (SSLV), and the under-construction Gaganyaan pad. This diversification enhances ISRO’s resilience against launch delays and weather disruptions. It also amplifies India’s competitiveness in the small-satellite commercial market—an increasingly lucrative global domain . ISRO recently celebrated its 100th mission—highlighting PSLV’s consistent reliability and marking a milestone in India’s ambition to achieve another 100 launches in the next five years .
Path Forward
With PSI identifications nearing completion, detailed safety, environmental, and regulatory clearances are expected over the next 12–18 months. Civil engineering work could begin by late 2025, with phased activation of PSLV and SSLV launch lanes by 2027–2028. IN‑SPACe will work closely with ISRO and the Gujarat government to fast-track land acquisition and formal permissions.
The proposed Gujarat launch complex represents a watershed moment for India’s space program. Leveraging a ₹10,000 crore investment, it signifies not only a geographic expansion of launch capability but also a strategic alignment with private industry, faster mission cadence, diversified orbital access, and regional empowerment. This facility will position India as a global launch powerhouse—from micro-satellites to interplanetary missions—and anchor state-of-the-art aerospace infrastructure on India’s western coast..
