ISRO’s 100th Launch Marks a Quantum Leap in India’s Space Journey: Dr. Jitendra Singh

GG News Bureau
Sriharikota, 29th Jan: Union Minister of State for Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh, hailed the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) 100th successful launch as a “quantum leap” in India’s space journey. Speaking after the launch of the GSLV-F15/NVS-02 mission from Sriharikota, he highlighted India’s rapid progress in space exploration and the growing role of private sector participation.

Dr. Singh emphasized that while ISRO was established in 1969, it took over two decades to set up its first launch pad in 1993, followed by a second pad in 2004. However, in the past decade, India’s space sector has witnessed unprecedented expansion in both infrastructure and investment. “This 100th launch marks a milestone that was not achieved in the last six decades. We are now building a third launch pad in Sriharikota and, for the first time, expanding beyond it with a new launch site in Tamil Nadu’s Tuticorin district,” he stated.

The Minister also underlined the surge in private sector participation, noting that from a handful of space startups in 2021, India now has nearly 300, many of which have achieved global recognition. He highlighted the economic impact of this growth, with Rs 1,000 crore invested in the space sector in 2023 alone. India’s space economy, currently valued at $8 billion, is projected to grow to $44 billion over the next decade.

Dr. Singh further pointed out India’s dominance in commercial satellite launches, stating that 90% of foreign satellites are now being launched through ISRO, reflecting the global trust in India’s space capabilities. He attributed this success to key policy reforms, including the opening of the space sector to private enterprises, which has spurred innovation, investments, and international collaborations.

Taking to social media, Dr. Singh congratulated ISRO for its unwavering commitment to excellence. “100th Launch: Congratulations ISRO for achieving this landmark milestone. It’s a privilege to be associated with the Department of Space at this historic moment. Team ISRO, you have once again made India proud,” he wrote.

Reflecting on the contributions of pioneers like Vikram Sarabhai and Satish Dhawan, he noted that their vision laid the foundation for India’s ascent as a global space powerhouse. The 100th launch, he asserted, is not just a numerical achievement but a symbol of India’s transformation into a leading spacefaring nation.