In a first,GNLU to offer space law course soon

The single semester optional course (at PG degree level) will be conducted in coordination with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and will be offered to 160 students.

Though India has a space policy,there is no comprehensive law on space legislation.

GNLU Director Bimal Patel said that earmarking a space law will have a promotional effect and will increase the Indian space economy.

The course aims to put Indian space programme in accordance with the international context. As India is increasingly taking up projects in collaboration with other countries,the course will also look at the liabilities in context of the space application. It will address issues like compensation for damage and accountability.

ISRO has been roped in to allow convergence of space technology and legal expertise. After completing the course,the students will have the scope of working as legal advisors in space applications centres and as policy makers.

Patel said: “Studying and devising space law can help scientists and policy makers in dealing with space-related responsibilities. Our scientists are not informed about the liabilities in context of other countries and obligations in context of international agreements that India is not yet a party to.”

He said India will be viewed as a responsible country and will make it easier for the country to purchase space technology.