The Technology Development Board (TDB), under the Department of Science and Technology, has signed an agreement to provide ₹116 crore in financial support to Navi Mumbai-based Manastu Space Technologies Private Limited for advancing its indigenous green propulsion technology.
The support will be provided through the government’s Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund. The project has a total estimated cost of ₹277.63 crore and aims to develop a scalable propulsion system for satellites and launch vehicles.
According to the Department of Science and Technology, the programme is designed to advance the technology from Technology Readiness Level 6 to Level 9, a stage associated with final system validation and readiness for deployment.
Manastu Space is developing a propulsion system based on hydrogen peroxide combined with additives. The technology uses an integrated engine and catalyst system and is intended to provide propulsion solutions across a range of requirements, from small satellites to higher-thrust applications.
The project includes the development of propulsion engines, propellant feed systems and a high-temperature ceramic catalyst designed to operate under demanding conditions.
The company has already demonstrated its technology in space. The new funding will support further engineering, integration, testing and validation to improve the system’s performance and reliability.
Propulsion technology is a critical component of satellite operations and launch vehicles. It helps spacecraft manoeuvre, maintain their intended orbits and carry out mission requirements. Developing indigenous systems could strengthen India’s domestic space supply chain and reduce dependence on externally sourced technologies.
The TDB said the project reflects the government’s effort to support technology-intensive programmes that require sustained investment before commercial deployment.
The agreement represents a step towards expanding India’s private-sector capabilities in advanced space technology. The project’s progress will depend on successful development, validation and eventual deployment of the propulsion systems for their intended applications.
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