ASTRA 1.0 (Advanced Solutions in Technology for Resilience & Autonomy)

• Startups at product or revenue stage in space, defence or advanced manufacturing.

About this scheme

ASTRA 1.0 is a three-month defence technology accelerator program designed to facilitate the transition of innovative prototypes into functional defence applications. It is spearheaded by T-Works, an initiative of the Government of Telangana dedicated to making hardware prototyping more accessible and efficient through a comprehensive ecosystem for product development. JNTUH TBI, an NAAC A++ accredited institution, complements this by contributing its academic and incubation expertise, providing a strong foundation for participant success.

The program prioritises practical validation over theoretical development, offering startups the opportunity to test their solutions in real-world defence environments. This approach addresses the critical need for solutions that not only perform under laboratory conditions but also meet the stringent operational and security standards for deployment in the defence sector. ASTRA 1.0 aims to strategically bridge the gap between initial concept and successful integration into India's defence ecosystem, fostering indigenous capabilities.

A key benefit of ASTRA 1.0 is its equity-free participation, ensuring founders retain full ownership. While it does not offer direct cash grants, the program provides invaluable access to T-Works' state-of-the-art hardware prototyping infrastructure. This includes specialized tools and machinery necessary for advanced manufacturing, precision fabrication, and rigorous testing of defence-grade hardware.

Key non-monetary benefits include structured mentorship from seasoned defence experts, offering insights into procurement, operational requirements, and market access. Participants also gain access to sandbox testing environments that simulate diverse operational conditions, allowing for robust solution validation. Strategic connections with investors, corporates, and the broader defence ecosystem are facilitated. Furthermore, participants receive expert guidance on navigating crucial government funding schemes such as iDEX, TDF, Make-1, and Make-2, supporting their pathway to real-world deployment and market integration within the defence sector.

Who can apply

• The program is open to Indian startups operating within the country's innovation ecosystem, emphasizing domestic contribution to defence technology.
• Eligible startups must have developed a Proof of Concept (PoC) or be in the early-revenue stage of their business lifecycle. This targets solutions ready for practical application or initial market validation.
• Applicants must be developing solutions specifically for defence technology applications, addressing critical needs of the Indian defence sector.
• Key technology focus areas include energy and power systems, autonomous systems, sensors and communication, and advanced hardware. These are vital for modernizing defence capabilities and achieving strategic autonomy.
• Participating teams should demonstrate a clear readiness to advance their solutions from the research and development phase towards practical, real-world defence deployments, with a viable path to implementation and impact.

Eligible entity types: Private Limited, LLP, Partnership, Proprietorship

Benefits & funding

• Equity-free participation with no direct cash grants.
• Benefits include access to T-Works' state-of-the-art hardware prototyping infrastructure, specialized tools, and machinery.
• Participants receive structured mentorship from defence experts, access to sandbox testing environments, and strategic connections with investors and corporates.
• Guidance on government funding schemes like iDEX and TDF is also provided.

How the application process works

The journey below is informational, compiled from the official program guidelines. Applications are submitted directly with T-Works, in your own name.

1. 1

   The process involves an online application, initial screening by experts (T-Works, JNTUH TBI, defence specialists), followed by a pitch and virtual interview for shortlisted startups.

2. 2

   Final selection is based on innovation, technical readiness, deployment potential, and team strength.

Documents checklist 9

• Startup pitch deck
• Product presentation
• Proof of Concept (PoC) details
• Product demo video (if available)
• Founder profiles
• Company incorporation certificate (if incorporated)
• PAN and GST details (if applicable)
• Technical documentation
• Intellectual Property (patent details, if any)

Need help getting these in order? IncorpX provides assistance for incorporation, DPIIT recognition, MSME and GST registrations along with document preparation.

Frequently asked questions