Parliamentary panel flags operational risks due to limited space launch pads in India
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology, in its report on Demands for Grants (2026-27) of the Department of Space, has highlighted that India's reliance on a limited number of launch pads poses operational risks. Currently, India has only one spaceport, the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, with two launch pads. To address this, the Department of Space is developing another launch complex at Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu, which will primarily cater to Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLV).
Key Points
- A Parliamentary Standing Committee report highlighted operational risks due to India's limited number of space launch pads.
- India currently operates only one spaceport, the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, which has two launch pads.
- A new launch complex is under development at Kulasekarapattinam in Tamil Nadu.
- The new facility will primarily be dedicated to Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLV).
Exam Facts
- Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science and Technology (report for 2026-27).
- India's only spaceport: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.
- New launch complex location: Kulasekarapattinam, Tamil Nadu.
- New complex dedicated to: Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLV).
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