Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that plans are underway to send an Indian astronaut into space by 2040.
The first International Space Conference is being held in Paris, the capital of France. Prime Minister Modi participated in it via video conference and addressed it on Thursday, saying:
For centuries, space has inspired people's imagination. Today, it is shaping life on Earth, from climate and crops to oceans and communities. The opportunities that space offers are countless. We have a shared responsibility in this regard.
We must be clear about the goals of further advancing space technologies and increasing the number of people engaged in space-related activities. Cooperation instead of conflict, sustainability instead of short-term gains, and inclusive activities instead of exclusion are the best approach.
“The whole world is one family” is India’s approach. That is, one Earth, one family, one future. This spirit must extend beyond Earth as well (space sector cooperation).
India supports a safe, sustainable, and peaceful environment in outer space, based on international law, dialogue, and multilateral cooperation. There are abundant opportunities to achieve success in the space sector, and we all share a collective responsibility in this regard. Scientific data should be used for the common good with honesty and transparency. India’s space journey reflects this very principle.
ISRO, watched closely by the whole world: With its outstanding work and low-cost satellite launch capability, ISRO is being watched with amazement by the world. All of these capabilities are being used for the farmers and fishermen in our country. They are used for weather forecasting, disaster management, and guiding ships.
So far, 430 satellites belonging to 34 countries have been launched into space using Indian rockets.
The technology and partnerships of the Indian Space Research Organisation are not only beneficial to India but also to the entire world. Behind this global trust lies the dedication and hard work of generations of Indian scientists, engineers, and technical experts. Working day and night, they have built ISRO’s credibility.
Next-phase plans: The Chandrayaan 3 space mission brought India the distinction of becoming the first country to land a spacecraft on the Moon’s south pole. Likewise, the Aditya 1 spacecraft is engaged in the task of learning about the Sun’s secrets. Last year, an Indian astronaut went to the International Space Station.
As its next space exploration project, India will establish an Indian space research station in space by 2035. By 2040, it will send an Indian to space. Behind all these efforts, our policies are very clear. The benefits gained from our research should be useful to all of humanity—that is the goal.
France has been a reliable partner in India’s space research efforts since 1960. India is engaged in space exploration for the next generation. I invite France and other countries to join as partners in this journey. I thank French President Emmanuel Macron for inviting me to attend this conference,” Modi said.