IN-SPACe invites private firms to build ground stations at ISRO NRSC campus
On June 2, 2026, the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) in Bengaluru announced it has invited private firms to set up and operate satellite ground stations inside the National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) campus. The initiative marks a major step toward commercialising India's satellite infrastructure by fostering public-private partnerships.
Under the newly issued expression of interest, IN-SPACe is seeking up to three Indian companies to establish these ground stations. The physical site is located within the NRSC campus at Shadnagar, on the outskirts of Hyderabad.
The project is designed to seed a commercial "Ground Station as a Service" ecosystem in the country. This will allow private operators to receive satellite data, track spacecraft, and sell communication support services to both domestic and international clients.
The designated site covers approximately 9.15 acres within the NRSC premises. To maintain security, the area will be physically separated from existing government facilities using dedicated fencing and access controls. Selected operators will be allowed to install S-, X-, and Ka-band ground stations.
A key advantage of the Shadnagar location is its protection against radio frequency interference. While parts of the 24.25–27.5 GHz spectrum are designated for 5G deployment across India, a 2.7-kilometre exclusion zone has been established around five Department of Space sites, including Shadnagar. This buffer makes the site ideal for Ka-band data reception.
IN-SPACe is offering interested companies two pathways to participate. The first option allows firms to lease abandoned antenna pedestals and control rooms on 10- or 20-year terms to upgrade or rebuild them. The second is a plug-and-play model where ISRO and IN-SPACe will build ready-to-use facilities capable of supporting antennas up to 7.5 metres in diameter.
Companies interested in the project must submit their responses by June 25. An open-house discussion and site visit at the Shadnagar campus is scheduled for June 19.
