India’s Expansive Space Vision Unveiled by PM Modi at GLEX 2025

In a stirring address delivered virtually to the Global Conference on Space Exploration (GLEX) 2025, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi unveiled India’s far-reaching ambitions in the realm of space science and exploration. Addressing a global audience of space scientists, astronauts, policy leaders, and technocrats, the Prime Minister celebrated India’s meteoric rise as a space power while laying out an inclusive vision for the future—rooted in innovation, cooperation, and empowerment.

From Humble Beginnings to Historic Feats

Opening his speech, PM Modi invoked India’s humble beginning in the space domain, recalling how in 1963, the country launched its first rocket from Thumba, Kerala. “Today, we stand as the first country to successfully land near the Moon’s South Pole,” he said, referencing the groundbreaking success of Chandrayaan-3.

Highlighting the significance of India’s trajectory, the Prime Minister stated, “Space is not merely a destination but a declaration—of curiosity, courage, and collective progress.” He celebrated India’s Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) which made global headlines in 2014 by reaching Mars in its maiden attempt—a feat unmatched to this day.

A Legacy of Lunar Achievements

PM Modi traced India’s lunar legacy beginning with Chandrayaan-1, which was instrumental in discovering water molecules on the Moon. He noted that Chandrayaan-2 provided the highest-resolution images of the lunar surface, and Chandrayaan-3 further deepened global understanding of the Moon’s lesser-known South Pole region.

He further lauded India’s engineering strides, citing the development of indigenous cryogenic engines, and missions that saw the country launch 100 satellites in one go. “We have launched over 400 satellites for 34 nations,” he proudly proclaimed, underscoring India’s global credibility as a reliable and cost-effective launch service provider.

Docking Breakthrough and Gaganyaan Milestone

Among India’s latest achievements, PM Modi celebrated the successful docking of two satellites in orbit—a technological milestone for autonomous in-space operations and future space stations. He hailed this as a “giant leap” in India’s deep space capabilities.

He reaffirmed India's resolve with the forthcoming Gaganyaan mission, which will mark the nation’s first crewed spaceflight. In a major announcement, he revealed that “an Indian astronaut will travel to space in the coming weeks,” in collaboration with NASA—highlighting the growing Indo-US space partnership.

India’s Long-Term Space Vision: 2035 to 2040

Taking a forward-looking view, the Prime Minister laid out India’s multi-decade roadmap for space leadership. By 2035, India aims to establish the Bharatiya Antariksha Station, which will be a platform for international scientific collaboration and advanced research in microgravity conditions.

By 2040, PM Modi vowed that “an Indian astronaut will leave footprints on the Moon,” marking the beginning of human exploration missions to other celestial bodies. He added that Mars and Venus remain key targets in India's interplanetary science agenda.

“Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” and Space for Humanity

Echoing India’s civilizational ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family—PM Modi emphasized that India’s space endeavors are not rooted in competition but in cooperation. “Our journey is not about racing against others; it’s about rising together,” he affirmed.

He pointed to India’s leadership in regional cooperation, such as launching a satellite dedicated to South Asian nations. The newly announced G20 Satellite Mission, conceptualized during India’s G20 Presidency, will provide data services and climate resilience tools for developing countries, especially in the Global South.

Empowerment Through Space Technology

More than exploration, the Prime Minister emphasized how space technology is a tool for empowerment. He elaborated on the everyday uses of satellite data in India—ranging from early warning systems for fishermen to railway safety monitoring, agricultural planning through the GatiShakti initiative, and precise weather forecasting.

“In India, satellites orbit not just for science, but for service,” PM Modi stated, reflecting on how technology is integrated into the country’s governance framework for inclusive development.

Startup Surge and Women-led Missions

India’s space sector, now open to private innovation, has witnessed an explosive rise in entrepreneurship. “More than 250 startups are now active in satellite design, propulsion, and space imaging,” said the PM, crediting government policy reforms and ISRO’s mentorship.

He also proudly spotlighted women scientists, many of whom have led major Indian missions including Chandrayaan, Mars Orbiter Mission, and others—symbolizing a broader cultural shift in STEM leadership.

A Call for Global Unity in the Cosmos

Concluding his address, Shri Modi called for a renewed era of multilateral collaboration in space. “Let us dream together, build together, and reach for the stars together,” he said, inviting the global community to join hands in writing the next chapter of human space exploration.

“India’s space journey is a message of hope, a symbol of shared progress, and a testament to what humanity can achieve when we rise beyond boundaries.”