NEW DELHI — India is gearing up for an exciting journey into space. Over the next 15 years, the country plans to launch more than 100 satellites. This is a mix of government missions and private efforts, according to Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh. He announced this ambitious plan during the National Space Day celebrations in New Delhi.
Singh unveiled a roadmap for the Indian space sector that will guide its development until 2040 and beyond. This plan aims to use space technology for various important issues, such as food and water security, disaster management, and environmental sustainability. The vision is to create a ‘Viksit Bharat’—a developed India.
Singh noted that India’s space program is entering a transformative phase. It’s no longer just about historic milestones; it’s about practical benefits for society. The shift toward involving private companies has sparked innovation and entrepreneurship.
Today, India hosts hundreds of start-ups focused on space technologies. These firms are not only advancing interplanetary exploration but are also enhancing everyday governance. For example, space technology is now essential in disaster management, infrastructure monitoring, and smart city planning.
As part of its future plans, ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) is preparing for the uncrewed Gaganyaan-1 mission, expected by the end of this year. This mission will feature a humanoid robot named Vyommitra, representing a significant step toward human spaceflight.
Looking further ahead, India aims for its first human spaceflight under the Gaganyaan mission in 2027. After that, plans include launching Chandrayaan-4 in 2028 and a mission to Venus, with aspirations to establish the Bharat Antariksh Station by 2035. Singh also mentioned the ambitious goal of sending an Indian astronaut to the Moon by 2040.
Expert opinions highlight that India’s focus on space holds great promise for its economy. A recent report from the Space Data Association reveals that countries investing in space technology see a boost in job creation and innovation. As the world becomes increasingly reliant on satellite data, India’s initiatives could place it at the forefront of this vital industry.
Public interest in space has been amplified by social media trends. Many people are excitedly discussing India’s achievements, with hashtags like #Gaganyaan and #ISRO trending regularly. This reflects a growing fascination with space exploration and national pride in India’s advancements.
Overall, India is not just dreaming about the stars; it’s taking concrete steps to reach them. The journey promises to bring technological advancements that benefit everyday life while inspiring future generations.
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Jitendra Singh, Satellites India