Assam Set to Launch Pioneering Satellite Project ‘ASSAMSAT’ with ISRO Collaboration

GUWAHATI- In a groundbreaking move, Assam is poised to become the first state in India to launch its own satellite, named ‘ASSAMSAT,’ marking a significant leap in the application of space technology for regional development. The ambitious project, announced in the 2025-26 state budget on March 10.

ASSAMSAT is being developed in collaboration with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe). Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has been praised for this forward-thinking move, which is part of a broader strategy to position Assam as a leader in innovation and technology.

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The ASSAMSAT initiative aims to provide a continuous and reliable flow of data to support critical socio-economic projects across the state.  “This will not orbit the world or the entire country but will be state-centric,” said Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, highlighting its tailored focus on Assam’s unique needs.

The satellite, estimated to cost between ₹450-500 crore, is expected to deliver real-time insights, such as advance flood warnings, weather data for farmers, and enhanced border surveillance to monitor illegal infiltration. “If we have our own satellite, it can tell us if any foreigner tries to enter illegally and give prior information on impending floods,” Sarma told in a press conference following the budget announcement. This state-specific approach could set a precedent for other regions in India to leverage space technology for localized governance and security.

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The impetus for ASSAMSAT also stems from past challenges, such as the coal mine accident in Umrangso in January 2025, where delays in obtaining satellite data hindered timely response efforts. The Chief Minister emphasized that a dedicated satellite would facilitate immediate access to critical information, improving disaster response and management.

Beyond its immediate practical applications, ASSAMSAT is envisioned to inspire and involve students in Assam. The government plans to engage college students in building experimental satellites, fostering innovation and interest in space technology, with support from IN-SPACe and ISRO.

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The announcement has garnered widespread attention, with preliminary discussions with ISRO already underway. While details such as the launch timeline and technical specifications remain under wraps, the project aligns with Assam’s broader push to integrate advanced technology into its growth strategy.

If successful, ASSAMSAT could position Assam as a trailblazer in India’s space sector, demonstrating how state-level initiatives can harness national resources for regional benefit.

As Assam reaches for the stars, the ASSAMSAT project symbolizes a bold step toward self-reliance and innovation, promising to transform the state’s socio-economic landscape while inspiring a new era of technological ambition.