RAS question
According to the 26 April 2026 Department of Space release, what was the approximate number of Indian space startups by early 2026?
Correct answer: (B) More than 400.
By early 2026, India had more than 400 space startups, according to the Department of Space release dated 26 April 2026.
Explanation
India’s post-reform private space ecosystem expanded sharply, with Indian space startups rising from single digits in 2019 to over 400 by early 2026. Therefore, “more than 400” is the correct option. These startups were active across launch vehicles, satellite and payload manufacturing, ground infrastructure, data services and emerging in-orbit segments. The figure 129 refers to authorisations granted by IN-SPACe since its inception, so it should not be confused with the startup count.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) About 40 is too low; Indian space startups had crossed 400 by early 2026.
- (C) Nearly 4,000 overstates the count by an order of magnitude; the count is over 400 startups, not thousands.
- (D) Exactly 129 refers to authorisations granted by IN-SPACe, not to the number of Indian space startups.
Concept
This tests current developments in India’s space sector, especially private participation after space reforms. RAS repeatedly asks such figures because they link science and technology policy with institutional reform and startup-led growth.