IN-SPACe hosted-payload norms: key authorisation rules for Indian and foreign entities

Direct fact

On 17 September 2026, IN-SPACe released the document “Norms, Guidelines and Procedures for implementation of the Indian Space Policy 2023” for authorisation of hosted-payloads, covering Indian and foreign entities in the space sector.

Key specifics

• IN-SPACe is the single-window agency for space sector activities of private entities in India.
• The guidelines apply to Non-Government Indian Entities (NGEs), a term used for private participants.
• Hosted-payload use is linked to Earth observation, space science, communications and technology demonstration.
• The document was issued under the Indian Space Policy 2023.
• Compliance is required with technical, safety, security, spectrum and orbital regulations.

Exam lens

Question type: Science & technology policy match-the-following; IN-SPACe, Indian Space Policy 2023, hosted-payloads, NGEs, regulatory compliance. TNPSC may ask which body authorises private space activities and what regulatory areas are covered.