A Hyderabad‑based space technology startup Dhruva Space for its Project Garud, has received ₹105 crore from the Indian government to develop an advanced satellite platform for earth observation and communication services. The grant is part of the government’s push to strengthen India’s space industry and boost private sector participation in space missions with an annual production of 500-600 satellites. The startup will use the funds to design, build and test a modular satellite bus that can host multiple payloads such as optical cameras, thermal sensors and communication transponders. Engineers plan to make the platform reusable and scalable, so it can be used for both small satellites and larger constellations over time.
According to the Project Garud, the first prototype satellite weighing around 350–400 kg is expected to be ready within three years. It will be launched on an Indian launch vehicle, likely ISRO’s PSLV or SSLV, to support tasks like agriculture monitoring, weather forecasting, telecom connectivity and near‑real‑time surveillance.
The company said the platform will support rapid integration of customer payloads, cutting development time by 30–40% compared with traditional satellite builds. It also aims to keep manufacturing costs low by using local suppliers and standardised components, aligning with India’s Make in India and self‑reliance goals in space technology. If successful, the startup could supply satellites or platforms to Indian government agencies, telecom operators and international customers. Project Garud is expected to create more than 100 high‑tech jobs in Hyderabad and encourage deeper collaboration between private firms and ISRO in the coming years.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
1. What will the startup use the ₹105 crore for?
The startup will use the money to design and build a modular satellite platform, test its sub‑systems, and develop the first prototype satellite for earth observation and communication services.
2. What kind of satellite platform is being developed?
It is a flexible, reusable satellite bus that can carry different payloads such as cameras, sensors and communication equipment, allowing quick assembly for multiple missions and customers.
3. How will this benefit India’s space sector?
The platform will reduce satellite build time and cost, support more Indian launches, create skilled jobs, and strengthen partnerships between private firms, ISRO and global space users.