Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently met with Pawan Chandana and Naga Bharath Daka, the co-founders of Skyroot Aerospace. The focus of the meeting was the successful flight of Vikram-1, Skyroot’s private launch vehicle. The discussion transitioned from congratulations to a lively conversation about technology roadmaps, long-term visions, and the expanding opportunities for private players in India’s space industry.
The interaction was described by PM Modi as “a great interaction,” with Vikram-1’s success prominently featured. He commended the founders for their energy, ambition, and positivity, noting that they embody the vibrant spirit of India’s private space ecosystem. Modi extended his best wishes to the entire Skyroot team, encouraging their continued success.
Chandana and Daka expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to share their company’s journey and vision with the Prime Minister. They highlighted Modi’s keen interest in their technology, plans, and the growing scope for private enterprise in the space sector. Skyroot also acknowledged the government’s policy reforms that have facilitated private participation in space activities and credited organizations like IN-SPACe and ISRO for their support.
Skyroot Aerospace, founded in 2018 by former ISRO scientists in Hyderabad, specializes in designing rockets for small-satellite launches. The company made history by becoming India’s first private entity to launch a rocket from Indian soil with the Vikram-S suborbital flight. Subsequently, the Vikram-1 rocket achieved orbit, marking India as the third nation with private orbital-launch capabilities.
