New Delhi: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and other key portfolios, Dr. Jitendra Singh officially inaugurated the International Conference on Space 2025, held virtually on 8th September 2025 under the theme “Harnessing Space for Global Progress: Innovation, Policy, and Growth.” He highlighted India’s transformational space vision, including launching a Bharatiya Space Station by 2035 and landing an Indian astronaut on the Moon by 2040, underscoring the nation’s emerging leadership in space exploration and innovation.
Celebrating Recent Milestones and Pioneers in Indian Space
Dr. Singh referenced Chandrayaan-3’s historic lunar south pole landing, which elevated India among leading space nations. He also acknowledged Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian Air Force officer to visit the International Space Station. Future missions to Mars, Venus, and asteroids, alongside the human spaceflight Gaganyaan initiative, reflect India’s expansive ambitions in space exploration.
Space Reforms and Startups Fueling Innovation and Growth
The Minister praised transformative reforms under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, opening the sector to private companies, startups, and academia. Over 300 startups are active in launch vehicles, satellites, and ground systems, fueling innovation, job creation, and investment. Dr. Singh emphasized the integral role of space technologies in sectors like agriculture, health, education, urban development, and governance, with a vision for space to empower all aspects of everyday life.
Strengthening International Collaborations
Highlighting global cooperation, Dr. Singh cited the NASA-ISRO NISAR mission and the forthcoming Chandrayaan-5 collaboration with Japan. Such partnerships demonstrate space’s vital role as a unified platform for scientific and technological advancement worldwide.
Skill Development as a Pillar of India’s Space Strategy
The conference also focused on nurturing talent through ISRO outreach, Centres of Excellence, and industry-academia partnerships, developing expertise in satellite design, propulsion, AI applications, and space law. The event drew over 500 delegates including government officials, academics, industry leaders, and startups, reflecting the sector’s vibrancy and growth potential.
Vision for the 21st Century: India’s Global Space Leadership
Recalling Prime Minister Modi’s vision that the 21st century belongs to India, Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that space will be a key frontier where India’s leadership gains global recognition. He welcomed the formation of CII’s National Committee on Space, aimed at uniting established firms and startups to boost the space ecosystem’s strength and sustainability.
Closing Remarks: International Conference on Space 2025
Dr. Singh concluded by reaffirming India’s commitment to use space for sustainability, equity, and worldwide progress. He called for a collective approach, encouraging all stakeholders to dream, innovate, and build together, transforming space from a distant frontier into a shared horizon of unity and growth.
For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.
Source: PIB
