The renowned aerospace engineer and former ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan shared in an exclusive interview with CNBC-TV18 at the launch of a Chennai-based space tech accelerator, Vaanam, that start-ups should concentrate on developing better products, particularly in take-off platforms and thruster technology. Narayanan has been named a member of its advisory board.

“I haven’t been too happy with the work done by Indian space start-ups,” said Narayanan. “These start-ups can produce better launch platforms.” He added, “Our space start-ups are too focused on reinventing the wheel; they shouldn’t be duplicating what ISRO is already doing, and should venture into areas where ISRO does not have expertise.”

Tamil Nadu’s minister of industries, T Raja, was also present at the event. 

“Honourable Minister for Industries Dr. @TRBRajaa participated in the launch of Vaanam, an accelerator to enable startups in the burgeoning space tech sector, in the esteemed presence of Thiru. Nambi Narayanan.” posted the ministry on X.

Narayanan was once arrested on charges of a 1994 ISRO espionage case but was released with a clean sheet after a CBI investigation found the allegations baseless.

Narayanan Slams Indian SpaceTechs:

The former ISRO scientist spoke to CNBC-TV18 at the launch of Vaanam, a Chennai-based space-tech accelerator. 

He criticised the space-tech start-up ecosystem for not focusing on building better take-off platforms and large thrusters. 

He explained that a better Indian space start-up would help cultivate a larger market.

The rocket engineer also slammed the Centre’s recent ₹1,000 crore VC fund for space-tech start-ups as insufficient. He said funds should be allotted based on how it is spent and whether start-ups can make full use of it.

Narayanan said the effectiveness of ₹1,000 crore would depend on how it’s spent and whether startups can utilize it.

He is also involved with Vaanam, a space tech accelerator, aiming to bring six to seven space startups in Tamil Nadu under its wing in the next eight months, recognising the lack of awareness among most space startups about their potential and problem-solving capabilities.