India’s Space Journey: Advancing Empowerment through Science and Collaboration

GS3 – Science & Technology

Context:

The Prime Minister highlighted that India’s space exploration is not just about scientific milestones, but also about empowering people, enhancing governance, and promoting global cooperation.

Space as a Tool for Empowerment

• Beyond Exploration:
  Space technology in India is viewed as a driver of social empowerment, aiding in service delivery, economic growth, and technological inspiration.
• Satellite Applications for Public Good:
  Indian satellites support diverse needs—from fisheries advisories and railway safety, to logistics under PM Gati Shakti and accurate weather predictions.
• Catalyst for Development:
  Space-based infrastructure enables inclusive growth, improved citizen services, and efficient governance mechanisms.
• Inspiration and Collective Pride:
  Space missions symbolize the aspirations of a billion Indians, turning scientific endeavors into national pride and unity.

Scientific and Technological Legacy

• Modest Origins:
  India’s space odyssey began with a small rocket launch in 1963, growing into a world-class space program.
• Chandrayaan Missions:
  • Chandrayaan-1 discovered lunar water molecules.
  • Chandrayaan-2 delivered high-resolution Moon imagery.
  • Chandrayaan-3 (2023) achieved a historic soft landing near the Moon’s South Pole.
• Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan):
  In 2014, India became the first country to reach Mars on its maiden attempt.
• Engineering Achievements:
  • Rapid development of cryogenic engines
  • Launch of 100+ satellites in a single mission
  • Deployment of 400+ satellites for 34 nations
  • Successful satellite docking achieved in 2025

Future Space Milestones

• 2025: Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to participate in the ISRO-NASA joint mission to the International Space Station (ISS) under Axiom-4.
• 2035: Launch of the Bharatiya Antariksha Station, fostering space research and international cooperation.
• 2040: Planned Indian human mission to the Moon, with subsequent missions to Mars and Venus.

Boosting Innovation and Private Participation

• Thriving Startup Ecosystem:
  Over 250 space-tech startups are working in areas such as satellite manufacturing, propulsion systems, and remote sensing.
• Economic Contribution:
  The space sector has generated more than 22,000 jobs in the last 10 years.
• Women in Science:
  Indian women scientists are leading major missions, breaking barriers in STEM and contributing to global research.
• Reform-Driven Growth:
  Institutional and policy reforms have led to greater investment, R&D incentives, and enhanced international engagement.

Space as a Strategic Diplomatic Asset

• Regional Engagement:
  India has launched satellites for South Asian nations, enhancing regional connectivity and cooperation.
• Support to the Global South:
  The proposed G20 Satellite Mission is envisioned as India’s scientific contribution to developing countries.
• Global Scientific Partnership:
  India emphasizes a multilateral approach to space, promoting its role as a shared domain for addressing global challenges and advancing collective knowledge.