Is India on the Verge of Becoming a Space Superpower?
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Synopsis
India is on the verge of becoming a space superpower, fueled by ambitious missions and a surge of innovation. Experts applaud PM Modi's Independence Day speech as a catalyst for growth in the space sector, with a vision to achieve a $44 billion economy by 2033.
Key Takeaways
- India is rapidly progressing towards becoming a space superpower.
- The space industry has seen significant growth over the last five years.
- Key missions include Gaganyaan, Chandrayaan, and Mangalyaan.
- Government policies have encouraged private sector participation.
- The Bharatiya Antariksh Station is set to be a game-changer.
New Delhi, Aug 15 (NationPress) India is on the brink of becoming a space superpower, with the industry experiencing incredible growth over the past five years, experts shared on Friday, praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Independence Day speech regarding the space sector.
In his address from the Red Fort, PM Modi expressed pride in the nation's achievements in the space sector. He emphasized that India is striving for self-reliance in this domain.
Highlighting various ambitious missions such as Gaganyaan, Chandrayaan, and Mangalyaan, space scientist Dr. P K Ghosh told IANS: “We are approaching the status of a space superpower with these projects underway.”
Dr. Ghosh commended the Prime Minister for recognizing the space sector, which “has developed numerous technologies independently.”
One prominent example is the Cryogenic Engine technology. Additionally, the Gaganyaan mission—India's flagship human spaceflight initiative—is currently in preparation, he noted.
Remarkably, these space achievements have been realized on a frugal budget and have delivered substantial results.
“Other countries are eager to collaborate with us,” Dr. Ghosh remarked, referring to the recent NISAR mission in partnership with NASA, as well as upcoming projects with Japan’s space agency JAXA and other nations.
The PM also mentioned plans for developing a domestic space station—Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS)—and emphasized the need for self-sufficiency in the space sector.
“The BAS, expected to be operational after 2030, will be a significant milestone. Every one of our 1.4 billion citizens should feel proud of it. Currently, we participate in the International Space Station and the Chinese Tiangong,” Dr. Ghosh stated.
“The youth of our nation are increasingly motivated to join the space sector,” he noted, pointing out the 300 space startups emerging in the country.
Lt. Gen. AK Bhatt (retd.), Director General of the Indian Space Association (ISpA), praised the government's decision to open the space sector to private enterprises in 2020, attributing this policy to the rise in space startups.
“The Hon’ble Prime Minister's visionary initiative to liberalize India’s space sector has been transformative. Supported by progressive reforms, including the Space Policy and a favorable climate for foreign direct investment, the industry has expanded dramatically in just five years,” Bhatt emphasized.
“The boom in space startups and their achievements illustrate an unparalleled wave of innovation and ambition among our youth. We are optimistic about reaching a $44 billion space economy by 2033 and solidifying India’s position among the global leaders in space exploration. This growth represents not just an industry expansion but a national movement motivating every Indian to aspire for greatness,” he concluded.
Point of View
I firmly believe that India's advancements in the space sector reflect not only technological prowess but also a national spirit of innovation and ambition. With government initiatives and public enthusiasm, we are on a promising path to becoming a global leader in space exploration.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What recent advancements have propelled India towards becoming a space superpower?
India's ambitious missions like Gaganyaan, Chandrayaan, and Mangalyaan, along with significant government support and a surge in space startups, have propelled the nation toward becoming a space superpower.
How has the government's policy affected the space industry?
The government's policy to open the space sector to private entities in 2020 has led to a notable increase in space startups and innovation, driving industry growth.
What is the significance of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS)?
The BAS, expected to be established after 2030, will mark a significant milestone for India in terms of self-reliance and capability in space exploration.
