PM Modi Inaugurates Key Space Projects, Charts India’s Ambitious Trajectory in Space Exploration

GG News Bureau
Thiruvananthapuram, 27th Feb. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday marked a significant stride in India’s space odyssey as he visited the Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.

In a momentous ceremony, the Prime Minister inaugurated three pivotal space infrastructure projects collectively valued at approximately Rs 1800 crores.

These transformative projects comprise the SLV Integration Facility (PIF) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota; the cutting-edge ‘Semi-cryogenics Integrated Engine and Stage Test facility’ at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri; and the advanced ‘Trisonic Wind Tunnel’ at VSSC, Thiruvananthapuram.

During his visit, PM Modi also conducted a comprehensive review of the progress made in the Gaganyaan Mission, India’s ambitious venture into human spaceflight. In a moment filled with national pride, the Prime Minister bestowed ‘astronaut wings’ upon the four astronaut-designates: Group Captain Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, Group Captain Angad Pratap, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla.

Addressing the audience, PM Modi initiated a standing ovation for the astronaut-designates, hailing their valor and dedication as exemplary manifestations of India’s Amrit generation. Emphasizing the significance of India’s space endeavors, he underscored the nation’s journey towards asserting its prowess in the global order, drawing parallels with the historic achievements of land, air, water, and now space exploration.

Reflecting on India’s remarkable milestones in space exploration, PM Modi invoked the triumph of Chandrayaan, where India scripted history by becoming the first nation to land on the South Pole of the Moon. He hailed the astronaut-designates as embodiments of India’s resilience and aspirations, entrusted with carrying forth the dreams of 140 crore Indians into the cosmos.

Furthermore, PM Modi expressed delight in India’s strides towards self-reliance in space technology, highlighting the predominance of indigenous equipment in the Gaganyaan project. He emphasized the need for undivided support for the astronaut-designates, urging the nation to refrain from distractions that could impede their rigorous training regimen.

In his address, PM Modi lauded the pivotal role of women in India’s space program, acknowledging their indispensable contributions and leadership within ISRO. He envisioned a future where India’s space sector serves as a catalyst for scientific temperament and national progress, inspiring millions of youth to pursue careers in science and technology.

PM Modi concluded by reaffirming India’s commitment to space exploration, outlining ambitious plans for lunar missions, Venus exploration, and the establishment of a domestic space station by 2035. He underscored the transformative potential of India’s space economy, projecting a five-fold growth and positioning India as a global commercial hub in space technology.

The event was graced by the presence of dignitaries including Governor of Kerala, Shri Arif Mohammad Khan, Chief Minister of Kerala, Shri Pinarayi Vijayan, Union Minister of State, V. Muraleedharan, and Secretary, Department of Space and Chairman ISRO, Shri S Somnath, among others, signifying the collective resolve towards propelling India’s space endeavors to new heights.