Is India Ready to Become a Leading Space Power for Humanity?

Synopsis
India is setting its sights on becoming a key player in the global space arena, striving for collaborative efforts that benefit humanity and the planet. Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasizes India's transition from a follower to a global enabler in space exploration, showcasing its commitment to peaceful cooperation and innovation in the sector.
Key Takeaways
- India's ambition to be a major player in the space sector.
- Shift from follower to global enabler in space exploration.
- Collaboration with leading space nations.
- Focus on innovation through private enterprises.
- Significant growth in space startups.
New Delhi, May 9 (NationPress) India is striving to establish itself as a formidable force in the space sector, aiming to partner with the global community while focusing on the advancement of humanity and our planet, as stated by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, on Friday.
During his address at the Global Space Exploration Conference (GLEX 2025) held at Bharat Mandapam, Singh emphasized India's increasing stature as a space power on the world stage.
The Minister highlighted India's shift from being a follower in space exploration to becoming a global enabler.
“India is now collaborating as an equal partner with some of the leading space-faring nations. This reflects our scientific prowess, visionary leadership, and dedication to peaceful space cooperation,” he remarked.
He noted that India's space journey, which commenced from humble origins, has now become a source of motivation for developing nations.
Singh characterized GLEX 2025 as a platform that promotes India's vision on two levels -- “A for Bharat” and “B for the World.”
He mentioned that the conference embodies India's commitment to serving its own populace through space applications while also embracing the ethos of Vishwa Bandhu Bharat -- a reliable global partner dedicated to collaboration rather than domination.
“We are not here to act as a Big Brother,” he stressed, “but as equal brothers, collaborating with the rest of humanity for the mutual benefit of our planet.”
The Minister underscored the Government’s initiatives aimed at democratizing the space sector, fostering private enterprise and public-private partnerships.
“The opening up of India’s space sector has already sparked a surge in innovation, with over 190 startups emerging in the last two years alone,” he added, highlighting that this ecosystem is crucial for propelling India’s ambitions in deep space missions, satellite launches, and commercial space applications.
The prominent summit was organized collaboratively by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), and the Astronautical Society of India (ASI). It convened space leaders, astronauts, and scientists from around the world, with participation from more than 35 countries and international agencies, reinforcing India’s position at the forefront of space diplomacy and innovation.