NCVET Recognizes IN-SPACe as Awarding Body to Boost Skill Development in Space Sector

New Delhi, December 3, 2024: In a significant move to strengthen India’s vocational education and training ecosystem, the National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) has recognized the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) as a Dual Awarding Body. The agreement, signed in the presence of Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary, MSDE and Chairperson, NCVET, marks a pivotal step in aligning skilling initiatives with the evolving demands of India’s burgeoning space sector.

NCVET serves as the apex regulatory body for vocational education and training in India, setting benchmarks and improving outcomes across skilling initiatives. This recognition enables IN-SPACe to standardize its specialized training programs, ensuring alignment with both national and global frameworks while supporting key initiatives like the Skill India Mission.

IN-SPACe, an autonomous body under the Department of Space (DOS), is tasked with promoting and facilitating private sector participation in space activities. Its accreditation as an awarding body will enable it to deliver advanced training in critical areas such as Satellite Manufacturing, Space-Based Agriculture Technology, Launch Vehicle Mission Design, Orbital Mechanics, and Space Propulsion Systems.

NCVET has already approved six National Occupational Standards (NoS) proposed by IN-SPACe:

1. Essentials of Space Technology in Agriculture Sector
2. Fundamentals of Orbital Mechanics, Attitude Dynamics, and Space-Based Navigation
3. Foundations of Mission Design and Avionics Development for Launch Vehicles
4. Essentials of Satellite Manufacturing
5. Essentials of Space Data Products and Services
6. Introduction to Advances in Propulsion Systems for Launch Vehicles, Satellites, and Landing Missions

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari emphasized the growing demand for skilled professionals in India’s space sector. “As India continues to expand its space capabilities, building a highly skilled talent pool is crucial. The increasing role of the private sector makes it imperative to align workforce skills with international standards to drive innovation and ensure global competitiveness.”

Highlighting MSDE’s collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Shri Tiwari noted the ISRO Technical Training Program, launched in National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) in Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Trivandrum. The program targets upskilling over 4,000 technical employees within the Department of Space.

Dr. Vinod Kumar, Director of the Promotion Directorate at IN-SPACe, expressed optimism about the recognition. “This milestone is a testament to our commitment to fostering a skilled workforce capable of supporting India’s ambitious space initiatives. By providing cutting-edge training aligned with industry requirements, we aim to equip learners with the expertise needed to compete globally and contribute to the nation’s space ambitions.”

This collaboration underscores India’s focus on skill development in high-growth sectors, ensuring a future-ready workforce that supports the nation’s leadership in space exploration and technology.