Global firms keen on partnering with India in spacetech, says Prime Minister Modi

On Thursday, 27 November 2025, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi witnessed the maiden orbital launch vehicle of Skyroot Aerospace, Vikram-I, virtually. Vikram-I was also dedicated to the nation on the same day. He also inaugurated Skyroot’s new Infinity Campus, in a ceremony that signified yet another major success for India’s booming private sector space industry.

In his remarks on the day, PM Modi said that the innovation and risk-taking ability, as well as entrepreneurship, of the Indian youth were touching new peaks. “In the years to come, India will emerge as a global leader in the satellite launch ecosystem,” he added. He further said that the youth are bringing innovations to the science and innovation ecosystem. He said the government has made available extensive resources – through the National Research Foundation and schemes to enhance access to foreign research, among others – for scientific development and youth-led innovations.

The Vikram-I is a multi-stage launch vehicle that can place up to 300 kg into low Earth orbit (LEO). Named after India’s first space scientist, Vikram Sarabhai, the launch vehicle has been developed to power satellite launches into LEO with a carbon-fibre body. The vehicle integrates 3D-printed liquid rocket engines. Skyroot Aerospace claims the vehicle has quick turnaround time; it can be assembled and launched from any suitable launch site in as few as 24 to 72 hours.