NSIL Expands Technology Transfer to Indian Industry Under Transparent Framework

NSIL Deepens Private-Sector Engagement Through Structured Space Technology Transfers

India’s space ecosystem continues to mature as NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) expands technology transfer partnerships with domestic industry. As the commercial arm of the Department of Space , NSIL plays a pivotal role in licensing technologies developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) , enabling their commercial and strategic use under a regulated and transparent framework.

Scale and Scope of Technology Transfers

To date, NSIL has executed 70 Technology Transfer Agreements (TTAs) with Indian companies. These agreements allow industry partners to adopt advanced space technologies across manufacturing, electronics, materials and allied sectors. Each transfer is governed by formal TTAs and Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs) , ensuring protection of intellectual property and commercially sensitive information.

Transparency and RTI Compliance

Despite confidentiality clauses, NSIL maintains compliance with the Right to Information (RTI) Act . In response to RTI queries, the organisation has disclosed the names and basic details of companies receiving ISRO technologies. Information on available technologies, eligibility criteria and transfer procedures is proactively published on the websites of ISRO, IN-SPACe and NSIL , reflecting disclosure obligations under Section 4 of the RTI Act .

Institutional Oversight and Regulation

The regulatory ecosystem clearly defines roles: IN-SPACe facilitates private-sector participation, while NSIL acts as the licensor executing technology transfers. A dedicated Technology Transfer Committee evaluates applications to ensure fairness, objectivity and accountability. Independent oversight mechanisms further strengthen transparency, especially where confidentiality provisions apply.

Balancing Openness and Commercial Sensitivity

While NSIL regularly updates public information on technology availability, certain details—such as payment terms, pricing structures and agreement texts —are withheld due to their commercial and strategic nature. These fall under exemptions provided by Section 8(1)(d) of the RTI Act , ensuring protection of competitive interests without compromising institutional transparency.

Exam Point

• NSIL has signed 70 Technology Transfer Agreements with Indian firms.

• Transfers governed by TTAs and NDAs .

• IN-SPACe facilitates; NSIL licenses ISRO technologies.

• Commercial details exempt under RTI Act Section 8(1)(d) .