Assam in final stage of partner selection to build satellite, says CM
Assam is in the final stages of selecting a private-sector partner to launch 'AssamSAT,' an earth observation satellite. The project aims to improve governance, border security, and socio-economic project monitoring using the DBLOTT model.
Why it matters
This initiative marks a significant shift in Indian regional governance, as Assam becomes one of the first states to integrate dedicated space-tech infrastructure into its administrative operations.
The Assam government is in an advanced stage of evaluating and selecting a private-sector partner to launch its own satellite, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Sunday (August 23, 2026).
Claiming that Assam will be the first state in India to have its own earth observation system, he said the government will have the satellite under the DBLOTT (Design, Build, Launch, Operate, Train & Transfer) model.
"Earlier this year, we invited Expressions of Interest to select an implementation partner 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," Mr. Sarma said in a social media post.
He said 'AssamSAT' marks a landmark shift — from Assam being a user of satellite data to an active participant in the space-tech ecosystem, enabling faster and evidence-based governance.
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