The Technology Development Board (TDB), under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), signed an agreement on 25 September 2026 with Chennai-based space startup Agnikul Cosmos Private Limited. The agreement provides ₹200 crore under the Government of India’s Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund for the development of the Agnibaan Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV).
Technology Development Board and RDI Fund
The Technology Development Board was established under the Technology Development Board Act, 1995, and functions under the Department of Science and Technology. The RDI Fund is a government financing mechanism for supporting indigenous technologies that move from advanced development stages towards deployment.
Agnibaan Reusable Launch Vehicle
The Agnibaan RLV is designed for greater system-level reusability. Its architecture includes a reusable upper stage, descent systems, and recovery systems, which extend beyond conventional first-stage recovery used in some launch vehicles.
Funding Structure and Technology Targets
The ₹200 crore support will be provided through optionally convertible debentures (OCDs). The programme aims to move the technology from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 and above to TRL-8, which is a stage associated with system qualification and operational readiness.
The development programme covers propulsion, ascent, orbital insertion, controlled descent, and recovery. It also includes a lightweight upper stage and a semi-cryogenic liquid propulsion system with deep throttling and restart capabilities.
Reusable Launch Vehicle Concepts
Reusable launch vehicles are designed for repeated missions and high-frequency launches. Such systems are linked with lower launch and manufacturing costs and reduced space debris.
Important Facts for Exams
- The Technology Development Board operates under the Department of Science and Technology.
- Optionally convertible debentures are debt instruments that can be converted into equity under specified terms.
- Technology Readiness Level 8 refers to a system that has been completed and qualified through testing.
- Reusable launch vehicle development is a major area in space technology because it supports repeated launch operations.
Space Technology in India
India’s space sector includes launch vehicles, satellites, propulsion systems, and recovery technologies. Reusability, semi-cryogenic propulsion, and controlled descent are important engineering areas in current launch vehicle development.
