Book Title: Legal and Policy Regime of Outer Space and Global Governance
Editor: Dr. Ananya Rahul Bibave
ISBN: 978-81-979197-2-5
Chapter: 3
DOI: https://doi.org/10.59646/lpc3/257
Author: Aastha Koushal, Assistant Professor, PES Modern Law College, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
Abstract
India’s journey in space exploration, spearheaded by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), has been complemented by a comprehensive legal framework. The foundation of this framework is the ISRO Act of 1969, which established ISRO as an autonomous entity responsible for pioneering space research and development. Over the years, India’s space legislation has expanded, notably with the introduction of the Space Activities Bill, which addresses various aspects of space exploration, including licensing, safety standards, and liability provisions. These domestic laws are supplemented by India’s adherence to international treaties such as the Outer Space Treaty of 1967, the Liability Convention, and the Rescue Agreement. These agreements ensure responsible and peaceful space activities on a global scale. Additionally, recent policy advancements, such as the Indian Space Policy 2023 and the establishment of the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), reflect India’s commitment to fostering private sector participation and innovation in space. These efforts, alongside India’s active role in international space collaborations, demonstrate the country’s strategic focus on becoming a leading spacefaring nation.
References
- Space Activities Bill, 2017 (Pending).
- Treaty on Principles Governing the activities of the state in the Exploration and use of Outer Space, including the moon and other celestial Body, United Nations office for outer Space Affairs, The Outer Space Treaty (unoosa.org), last seen on 23/01/2024.
- Pooja Yadav, Key features Indian Space Policy 2023, Trends in World (12/01/2024)
- About us, In-SPACe, available at About Us > IN-SPACe – IN-SPACe (inspace.gov.in), last seen 26/01/2024.
- BRICS Space, Indian Space Organization, Department of Space, available at BRICS Space (isro.gov.in), last seen on 26/01/2024.