Assam is moving closer to becoming the first Indian state to have its own dedicated Earth observation system. The state government is now in the final stage of selecting a private partner for its planned AssamSAT mission.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the selection process is nearing completion after 13 companies expressed interest in the project. The satellite programme will be developed under the DBLOTT model — Design, Build, Launch, Operate, Train and Transfer.
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The AssamSAT project was announced in the Assam Budget 2025-26 in March. The state plans to develop the satellite system in collaboration with the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), which operates under the Department of Space.
What is AssamSAT?
AssamSAT is planned as a dedicated Earth observation system that will provide the Assam government with a regular and reliable stream of satellite data. The data is expected to support several areas of governance, including agriculture, flood and disaster management, infrastructure planning, border security and police operations.
The system could help the state monitor developments on the ground more closely and respond faster to emergencies, particularly in areas affected by floods and other natural disasters.
AssamSAT partner selection enters final stage
The state government had earlier invited Expressions of Interest (EoI) from companies to implement the project under the DBLOTT model. “Following strong interest from India’s private space sector companies, we are now in the final and critical stage of partner selection, with dedicated committees evaluating the proposals,” Sarma said in a social media post.
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The list of interested bidders includes both established aerospace and defence companies and newer private space firms. Among those that have shown interest are Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Tata Advanced Systems, Ananth Technologies, Data Patterns, Agnikul Cosmos, Dhruva Space, GalaxEye and SpacePixxel.
Assam plans multiple satellites and command centre
The Assam government is looking at a wider satellite network rather than relying on a single spacecraft. Sarma said the state intends to establish four to five satellites, with different satellites covering different parts of Assam. A dedicated command centre is also planned in Guwahati. The proposed system is expected to give the state access to satellite-based information for day-to-day administration as well as long-term planning.
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From satellite data user to space-tech participant
The Chief Minister said AssamSAT would represent a change in how the state uses space technology. At present, Assam largely depends on satellite data provided through national-level systems. With its own Earth observation system, the state aims to become a more active participant in India’s growing space-tech ecosystem.
The government expects the project to improve the speed and efficiency of governance by giving departments access to dedicated and timely data. If implemented as planned, AssamSAT could also become a significant example of how state governments can use India’s expanding private space sector for public administration and disaster management.
Indrani Priyadarshini is a journalist and editorial professional specialising in technology, artificial intelligence, smart cities, green energy, and digital transformation. With over four years of experience in tech journalism and digital media, she is known for turning complex industry developments into clear, engaging, and insightful stories. Her expertise spans reporting, editorial strategy, digital publishing workflows, and in-depth coverage of emerging technologies shaping the future.
