TDB backs Manastu Space with ₹116 crore for green propulsion
Why in the news
On 26 October 2026, the Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Department of Science and Technology signed an agreement to fund Manastu Space Technologies for an indigenous green propulsion system for space vehicles.
Key facts
- Beneficiary: Manastu Space Technologies Pvt Ltd, Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra.
- Funding: ₹116 crore under the Research Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund.
- Instrument: Optionally Convertible Debt (OCD).
- Thrust range: 5 mN to 300 N, serving small satellites to higher-thrust systems.
- Propellant: hydrogen peroxide-based green propellant with additives.
- Catalyst: an ultra-high-temperature ceramic catalyst.
- Sector: Deep Technology, sub-sector Space Technology.
Project at a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| TDB support | ₹116 crore |
| Total project cost | ₹277.63 crore |
| Readiness | TRL 6 to TRL 9 |
| Users | Satellites and launch vehicles |
About the project
The system includes engines and propellant feed systems and has already been demonstrated in space. The new funding will support further engineering, integration, testing and validation up to deployment. TDB Secretary Rajesh Kumar Pathak said home-grown propulsion is key to India’s space value chain and that the RDI Fund backs technology-heavy programmes needing sustained investment. The aim is to cut dependence on imported technology.
Exam angle
- TDB works under the Department of Science and Technology.
- Know TRL (Technology Readiness Level): the project moves from 6 to 9.
- Green propellant here is hydrogen peroxide-based, claimed to be cheaper and easier to handle than conventional propellants.