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.