Prime Minister Narendra Modi today urged India’s private sector and startups to step forward with a vision of launching 50 rockets every year. On the occasion of National Space Day, he affirmed that the government possesses both the intent and the willpower to implement the next-generation reforms required to achieve this vision. Mr Modi assured the space community that the government stands firmly with them at every step. The Prime Minister said that India’s progress in the space sector today is making the lives of ordinary citizens easier. In his video message on the occasion of National Space Day, Mr Modi said, India views space technology not only as a tool for scientific exploration but also as a means to enhance Ease of Living. He said, Space-tech is increasingly becoming an integral part of governance in India. Mr Modi cited examples such as satellite-based assessment in crop insurance schemes, satellite-enabled information and safety for fishermen, disaster management applications and the use of geospatial data in the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan. He said India is rapidly advancing in breakthrough technologies like semi-cryogenic engines and electric propulsion and will soon launch the Gaganyaan mission. The Prime Minister asserted that in the coming times, India will build its own space station. Mr. Modi said that in a short time, National Space Day has become an occasion of enthusiasm and attraction among the youth. He added that the space sector is achieving one milestone after another, and in the last 11 years, the government has implemented many reforms in the space sector.
The Prime Minister announced that the first PSLV rocket built by the private sector will soon be launched. He expressed happiness that India’s first private communication satellite is also under development. He added that preparations are underway to launch an Earth Observation Satellite Constellation through Public-Private Partnership.
Recalling that two years ago, India became the first country to reach the South Pole of the Moon, creating history, the Prime Minister highlighted that India has also become the fourth country in the world to possess docking-undocking capabilities in space. He shared that just three days ago, he met Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who unfurled the national flag at the International Space Station, filling every Indian with pride. Mr Modi remarked that the infinite expanse of space constantly reminds that no destination is ever final. He emphasised that, similarly, there should be no finality in policy-level progress within the space sector.
