Jitendra Singh: India’s Moon Mission Paves the Way for a Developed Bharat by 2040 – Highlights from Lok Sabha

New Delhi: Union Minister Jitendra Singh made an exciting announcement about India’s future in space. He stated that by 2040, an Indian will land on the Moon, possibly ahead of the 2047 goal set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This remark came during a session in the Lok Sabha, which turned chaotic as opposition members protested.

Singh emphasized that Shubhanshu Shukla’s recent journey to the International Space Station (ISS) is a significant achievement for India. The discussion was initiated despite the disruption in the House. Speaker Om Birla stated that Shukla’s mission inspires the youth and showcases national pride.

Despite the ongoing protests, Singh expressed his disappointment in the opposition’s reluctance to celebrate this milestone. The Lok Sabha was adjourned soon after, with hopes to resume the debate the next day. “Anger towards an astronaut is surprising. He represents our nation’s achievements, not any political agenda,” Singh remarked.

Singh highlighted a key achievement in India’s space program—the opening of the sector to private players in 2020, a move he credited to Modi. He mentioned that the space economy has surged to USD 8 billion and is expected to reach USD 45 billion over the next ten years. This rapid growth reflects India’s strategic focus on space technology.

Looking ahead, India plans to launch an uncrewed mission with a robot named ‘Vyommitra’ in 2026, followed by the Gaganyaan human spaceflight in 2027. Singh vowed that by 2035, India will have its own Bharat Antariksh Station and that the mission to the Moon is on track for 2040. “An Indian on the Moon will announce the arrival of a developed Bharat,” he stated.

The minister noted that Shukla’s trip, which cost the government about Rs 548 crore (USD 65 million), is modest compared to global missions and will provide invaluable insights for future ventures, including Gaganyaan. Singh praised the broader impact of India’s space initiatives, mentioning how space technology plays a role in national projects like Operation Sindoor.

Even as opposition protests continued, BJP leader Dilip Saikia called for unity in support of a thriving space program, crucial for India’s advancement in both science and strategy. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh echoed these sentiments, expressing disappointment in the opposition’s handling of such an important issue.

As India forges ahead in its space endeavors, the country looks poised for remarkable achievements that could shape its future on the global stage. With Shukla’s journey as a stepping stone, the horizon appears glowing with possibilities.

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