On Saturday, Union Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh shared an exciting vision for India’s future. He announced that by 2040, an Indian astronaut will proclaim “Viksit Bharat 2047” from the Moon’s surface. This milestone will symbolize India’s significant presence on the global stage.
Speaking at the National Space Day event in New Delhi, Singh emphasized that India’s space program is not just about rockets and satellites. It’s about empowering people and improving lives. He highlighted the goal of using science and innovation to build a brighter future.
Singh reflected on past achievements and mentioned the recent National Meet 2.0, held a decade after the first Mega User Meet in 2015. He stated that National Space Day serves as a reminder of India’s accomplishments in space as part of a broader vision where science meets public welfare.
He took a moment to honor four astronauts—Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, and Group Captain Angad Pratap—who are training for the Gaganyaan mission. Singh recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s push in 2014 for greater use of space technology in governance. He noted that significant advancements have occurred over the past ten years, both in government and private sectors.
This year’s National Meet involved nearly 300 discussions with various user departments, resulting in close to 90 detailed documents. These materials will guide a 15-year roadmap aiming to launch over 100 satellites, with a focus on small satellites. This mix of government and private initiatives will propel India’s space endeavors forward.
Singh mentioned that this roadmap is crucial for addressing major issues like food and water security, disaster management, environmental sustainability, and inclusive growth. India’s space program is evolving, becoming an essential part of scientific advancement and public welfare—not just symbolic achievements.
During the event, Singh recognized students who excelled in the Bharatiya Antariksh Hackathon and the ISRO Robotics Challenge. He reiterated that National Space Day is a celebration of India’s growth from its early space research days to becoming a trusted partner in international space missions.
As a testament to this evolution, a 2021 report from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) reveals that India aims to increase its share of the global space economy, projected to reach $1 trillion by 2040. This ambitious goal could solidify India as a leader in the global space landscape.
Overall, the path ahead for India in space exploration is thrilling and full of potential, marking a transformative period in the nation’s journey.
