The Context

• India celebrates its National Space Day on August 23 marking Chandrayaan-3’s success.
• Upcoming missions — Gaganyaan, Chandrayaan-4, Bharat Antariksh Station — highlight India’s rapid space advancements.
• However, the legal framework lags behind technological progress.

Global Legal Framework

• Outer Space Treaty (1967): Space belongs to all mankind, prohibits national appropriation, and makes states responsible for activities by government and private entities.
• Not self-executing: Countries must enact domestic space laws to operationalise treaty principles.
• Many nations (U.S., Luxembourg, Japan) already have legislation enabling licensing, liability coverage, and commercial rights.

India’s Current Approach

• India has ratified UN treaties but lacks a comprehensive national space law.
• Progress so far:
  • Indian Space Policy, 2023 – defines private sector roles.
  • IN-SPACe Norms, Guidelines and Procedures (NPG) – regulate authorisation of activities.
  • Catalogue of Standards – ensures safety in operations.
• Missing: An overarching “Space Activities Law” to integrate treaty obligations into domestic law.

Industry Concerns

• IN-SPACe lacks statutory authority, creating regulatory uncertainty.
• Startups face delays due to multiple ministry approvals.
• Absence of clear FDI rules, liability coverage, and IP protection discourages investors.
• Affordable insurance frameworks are vital to cover risks of high-value assets.

Why a National Space Law is Essential

1. Provides legal clarity, predictability, and accountability.
2. Ensures compliance with international obligations.
3. Strengthens private sector participation with licensing and liability frameworks.
4. Protects innovation, prevents talent/technology migration.
5. Enhances investor confidence and fosters sustainable space growth.

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