New Delhi: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, PMO, Atomic Energy, and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh, today highlighted the profound significance of space experiments conducted by Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla aboard the International Space Station (ISS), describing India as “Vishwabandhu Bharat” — the global benefactor. In a special discussion in the Lok Sabha titled “Critical Role of the Space Programme for Viksit Bharat by 2047,” Dr. Singh emphasized how these indigenous experiments on life sciences and plant physiology will contribute benefits not only to India but humanity at large.
Indigenous Innovation and Cost-Effective Space Technology
Dr. Singh noted that Shukla’s mission represents more than symbolic triumph; it showcases India’s growing prowess in cost-effective space technology, international collaboration, and indigenous innovation. Achieving this at a fraction of global costs, the mission embodies the country’s potential to blend intellectual capital with cutting-edge scientific planning. The Minister credited space sector reforms, particularly the opening to private participation, for the surge in innovation, pointing out the rise of over 300 space startups fueling India’s expanding $8 billion space economy.
Scientific Contributions and Atmanirbhar Bharat
The life sciences, agriculture, biotechnology, and cognitive research experiments designed and developed in India underscore the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Dr. Singh explained that the insights from these studies will transcend the space domain, impacting innovations in healthcare, agriculture, disaster management, and urban planning sectors.
Roadmap to Viksit Bharat Through Space Milestones
Tracing India’s space journey, Dr. Jitendra Singh applauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visionary leadership for creating a conducive policy and innovation ecosystem since the landmark 2018 Red Fort announcement, which set India on its human spaceflight trajectory. Collaborations with NASA, Axiom Space, and SpaceX mark India’s increasing prominence on the global stage.
Key forthcoming milestones outlined by the Minister include:
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Vyommitra Humanoid Mission in 2026
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Launch of the first Indian astronaut aboard Gaganyaan in 2027
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Indigenous Indian Space Station by 2035
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Indian astronaut’s Moon landing slated for 2040
Dr. Singh envisioned that just before 2047, a young Indian will proudly proclaim from the lunar surface the dawn of a Viksit Bharat—a developed and self-reliant India.
Inspiring Future Generations by Space Experiments
Concluding his address, Dr. Singh reflected,
“This is not just about one astronaut. It is about India’s place in the world and the dreams of every child who aspires to reach the stars.”
This sentiment captures the broader national aspiration of leveraging India’s expanding space capabilities to inspire and empower generations leading up to India’s centenary of independence.
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Source: PIB
