Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday stated that India is ready to make new strides in the space sector, and he encouraged the private industry to deliver, by creating five Unicorns in the next five years.
During a virtual address on National Space Day; he said private sector players should increase rocket launches from five to 50 a year.
The Prime Minister conveyed his greetings to the country, and its scientific community and youth, celebrating their achievements in the space sector, particularly during the last 11 years.
“India’s journey in space reflects our determination, innovation, and the brilliance of our scientists pushing boundaries,” the PM said.
Reflecting on the theme, ‘Aryabhatta to Gaganyaan: Ancient Wisdom to Infinite Possibilities’, the Prime Minister stated that it showcases “self-confidence from the past and determination of the future”.
It was clear to him that while the regulations had shackled the space industry for decades, his government’s emphasis on privatization is a main benefit to the industry at a time of success continuing to grow.
“The last 11 years have seen space reforms one after the other. The opening up of the space industry for the private sector also led to the build-up of 350 startups”.
“The space industry is acting as an engine for innovation and acceleration. Soon, India will launch PSLV rocket, the first private communication satellite, and an Earth observation satellite constellation built on public, private partnerships”.
“The space sector is set to create vast opportunities for Indian youth,” PM Modi said.
He emphasized the government's resolve and commitment to "next-gen reforms in the space sector," and encouraged the private sector to take the lead and be major drivers of the industry.
“Can the private sector create 5 Unicorns in the next five years? Currently, we have five big launches every year; can we scale it to 50 rockets every year, that is one per week?”
He highlighted the advancements made “in breakthrough technologies like semi-cryogenic engines and electric propulsion,” and stressed the role of space-technology in governance.
“Today, space-tech is also becoming a part of governance in India. Crop insurance schemes involve satellite-based assessments… Fishermen are receiving information and safety through satellites… Whether it’s disaster management or the use of geospatial data in the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan… Today, India’s progress in space is making the lives of ordinary citizens easier,” PM Modi said.
“Soon, thanks to the hard work of all you scientists, India will also launch the Gaganyaan mission…and in the coming times, India will build its own space station,” PM said.
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