3rd India Space Conclave highlights India’s rising role in global space collaboration
Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh announced here today that India is set to launch the European Union’s Proba-3 Space Satellite by in the first week of December, marking another milestone in its burgeoning role as a global space leader disclosing this while speaking at the 3rd Indian Space Conclave, Dr Jitendra Singh said, this underscores the deepening partnership between India and the EU in space research and exploration. This mission, aimed at observing the Sun, signifies both nations’ commitment to advancing scientific knowledge while reinforcing the reputation of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) as a trusted partner in international space missions. The Proba-3 satellite, which arrived this morning at pòłSriharikota, is aimed at observing the Sun and reflects a new level of equal collaboration between India and other major space powers.
The Proba-3 satellite will be India’s third such
launch for the EU, with previous missions supporting the Proba-1 and Proba-2
satellites. However, this mission is unique in its focus on solar observation.
Dr Jitendra Singh explained that Proba-3 will provide valuable insights into
solar corona dynamics, adding to ISRO’s portfolio of ambitious scientific
ventures, which recently included the groundbreaking Chandrayaan-3 lunar
mission. “India and Europe are together reaching out to the Sun,” said Dr
Jitendra Singh, highlighting the symbolism and science of this mission.
In his address, Dr Jitendra Singh credited Prime Minister Narendra
Modi’s forward-thinking policy changes with the rapid transformation of India’s
space sector. The 2020 reforms opened doors for private participation and
international collaborations, which Dr. Jitendra Singh said “unlocked” India’s
space potential. Previously, the space sector was limited by strict
governmental controls and secrecy, but the liberalised approach has led to
exponential growth, with India now boasting over 300 space startups
contributing to an array of domestic and global projects. This growth is a
testament to the nation’s increasing technological capability and its capacity
to support world class research.
Dr Jitendra Singh pointed out that the policy
shift is not just about exploration; it’s about leveraging space technology to
enhance infrastructure and everyday life across India. Today, satellites play a
role in urban planning, agriculture, and even groundwater monitoring under
India’s flagship “Jal Shakti” water conservation program. As a result, sectors
previously untouched by space technology, such as transportation and rural
development, are reaping the benefits of these advancements.
The Conclave also provided a platform for recognising India’s startup
ecosystem in space technology. “Only a few years ago, we had just a handful of
space-focused startups,” Dr Jitendra Singh remarked. “Today, there are over
300, fuelling an entire industry and creating jobs across the country.” This
surge in startups has not only curbed the historic brain drain but has also
attracted Indian talent back from abroad, particularly from agencies like NASA,
which previously drew many of India’s brightest space scientists.
In his address, EU Ambassador to India and
Bhutan, Herve Delphin, emphasized the significance of the Indo-European
partnership in space, describing India as a “cost-effective, dynamic space
power of the first order.” Commending India’s achievements, including the
recent success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission, Delphin stated that the European
Union views India as a natural ally in the realm of space exploration and
innovation. He highlighted that both the EU and India are consolidating their roles
as influential space powers, sharing a mutual interest in the peaceful use of
space and a commitment to tackling pressing global issues, such as climate
change and cyber security, through space-based solutions.
Ambassador Delphin also outlined the EU’s
ambition to further strengthen this collaboration, proposing joint initiatives
in Earth observation, training, and space security, areas where both regions
have complementary strengths. He pointed to existing partnerships, like India’s
collaboration with the EU’s Copernicus Earth observation program, as a
foundation for deeper integration. With plans underway to expand cooperation in
space security, Mr. Delphin expressed optimism for advancing space governance
and responsible practices on a global scale, adding that the upcoming 2025
EU-India Summit in Delhi will serve as a pivotal opportunity to build upon this
shared vision.
Looking ahead, India’s space program has
ambitious goals. The upcoming human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan, and plans
for a future lunar landing by 2040 reflect India’s determination to be at the
forefront of space innovation. The nation is also exploring future missions to
establish its own space station by 2035, which would further assert India’s
place in the global space landscape. Additionally, with a vision for space
tourism by 2040, India’s strategy is now as forward-looking as it is inclusive,
with plans to engage private companies and international entities at every
stage of its space exploration journey.
During the event, Union Minister Dr Jitendra
Singh unveiled SPADE, an innovative product developed by Suhora Technologies,
and presented the prestigious ISpA Space Industry Awards. Following the
inaugural session, he toured exhibition stalls featuring cutting-edge space
products, engaging with dignitaries and showcasing India’s advancements in
space technology.
In closing, Dr Jitendra Singh reiterated India’s commitment to
partnerships like the one with the EU. “As we look to 2047 and envision a
Viksit Bharat, the space sector will be a driving force in this transformation,
bringing scientific prestige and significant economic returns.” The Proba-3
launch not only strengthens Indo-EU relations but also highlights India’s capability
to lead in space science and technology, reinforcing its image as a
collaborative global space player. With this mission, ISRO continues to build
upon a legacy of achievements, propelling India towards a future where it is
not only a participant in global space endeavours but a leader shaping the
course of space exploration and innovation.
The inaugural session also saw participation from key figures in India’s space sector, including Jayant Patil, Chairman of the Indian Space Association (ISpA), S Somnath, Secretary of the Department of Space and Chairman of ISRO and the Space Commission and Lt Gen AK Bhatt (Retd), Director General of ISpA, underscoring the collaborative momentum within India’s rapidly evolving space ecosystem.
