IN-SPACe Launches ₹6 Crore AI Programme to Power India’s Space Innovation

India is accelerating the fusion of artificial intelligence (AI) with space technology through a new funding initiative launched by Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe). The programme, titled AI INSPIRED (Innovating Space Performance with Intelligent Resilient Engines Development) Opportunities in Space Sector , aims to empower start-ups and MSMEs to build AI-driven solutions that enhance space missions and expand downstream applications that benefit everyday life.

Announced by Promotion Directorate Director Vinod Kumar, the initiative will provide grant-in-aid support of up to ₹1 crore per project , with a total outlay of ₹6 crore . Up to six selected entities will receive funding under the IN-SPACe Seed Fund Scheme , along with mentorship, proposal development assistance, technical resources, and skills support. The programme seeks to ensure that non-government players develop solutions aligned with long-term national priorities and strengthen India’s space ecosystem.

The initiative arrives at a time when AI is transforming global space operations. From autonomous spacecraft decision-making to predictive maintenance and real-time data processing, AI is enabling satellites and missions to operate with greater efficiency and reduced dependence on ground control. For India, integrating AI is especially critical as satellite constellations expand and the volume of Earth observation data grows exponentially.

IN-SPACe has invited proposals across three strategic tracks . The first, Edge Intelligence in Orbit , focuses on AI-powered onboard systems capable of anomaly detection, power optimisation, and real-time decision-making. The second, Space for Earth Intelligence , promotes AI-based analysis of satellite data for applications such as precision agriculture, disaster management, climate monitoring, mineral mapping, and urban planning. The third track, Smart Access to Space , encourages innovations that improve launch logistics, satellite deployment, collision avoidance, and mission planning to make space access more reliable and cost-effective.

The programme also reflects the broader transformation of India’s space sector since reforms opened the domain to private participation alongside Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). India now hosts more than 150 space start-ups working across launch systems, satellite technologies, propulsion, and geospatial analytics. AI integration is expected to boost their competitiveness and enable export-ready solutions.

Globally, the space economy is projected to surpass $1 trillion by 2040 , with data services and analytics driving much of the growth. By fostering AI-enabled innovation, India aims to enhance mission autonomy, strengthen disaster preparedness and national security, enable data-driven governance, and create high-tech employment. The AI INSPIRED initiative underscores India’s strategic vision to merge space technology with intelligent systems, ensuring that advancements in orbit translate into tangible benefits on Earth.