Critical Role of the Space Programme for Viksit Bharat by 2047

General Studies Paper -3

CONTEXT: The recent Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla journey to ISS marks India’s ascent as a major space power, aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and embracing the philosophy of Vishwabandhu Bharat in the space sector.

Dimensions of India’s Space Programme

• Scientific & Technological Dimension:
  • Cost-effective innovation: India’s missions, such as Chandrayaan-3, succeeded in lunar landing at about 1/10th the cost of global peers; the ISS research mission was also completed at a fraction of international costs.
  • Indigenous R&D: Development of launch vehicles (PSLV, GSLV Mk-III), navigation (NavIC), and cryogenic technology showcases India’s self-reliance.
• Economic Dimension:
  • Space Economy: Currently worth ~$8 billion, India’s space sector is projected to reach $40 billion by 2040.
  • Startup ecosystem: Home to over 300 startups like Skyroot Aerospace, Agnikul Cosmos, and Pixxel, supported by IN-SPACe and NSIL.
  • Satellite services: Drive growth in broadband (OneWeb, Jio-Satellite), agriculture, logistics, and financial inclusion.
• Diplomatic & Global Dimension (Vishwabandhu Bharat):
  • South-South cooperation: India provides satellites and launch services to African and Asian nations (e.g., GSAT-9 “South Asia Satellite”).
  • International collaborations: Key projects with NASA (NISAR mission), Artemis Accords, and partnerships with France, Russia, SpaceX, and Axiom Space.
  • Soft power: India is recognized as a responsible, affordable space launch provider fostering goodwill worldwide.
• Social & Developmental Dimension:
  • Health & education: Telemedicine and tele-education programs connect rural India via INSAT satellites.
  • Agriculture: Satellite-based yield forecasting, soil moisture mapping, and precision farming increase productivity.
  • Disaster management: Real-time alerts and tracking (INSAT, RISAT) bolster climate resilience.
  • Urban planning: Remote sensing and GIS underpin smart city development.
  • Inclusivity: Spaces technology benefits extend beyond urban areas, supporting rural and marginalized communities.
• Security & Strategic Dimension:
  • Indigenous navigation: NavIC ensures India is not reliant on foreign navigation systems.
  • Military use: Development of military communication and surveillance satellites; dual-use technologies enhance security.
  • ASAT Test (2019): Demonstration of anti-satellite capability established deterrence in space.
  • Geopolitical leverage: Strategic autonomy enhanced vis-à-vis the US, China, and Russia.

Challenges

• Rising competition from private global giants (SpaceX, Blue Origin, etc.).
• Space debris and orbital congestion issues.
• Low R&D investment.
• Balancing commercialization with national security.
• Need for clear regulatory frameworks for startups and FDI.

Way Forward

• Increase R&D investment to meet global benchmarks.
• Facilitate private sector participation with simplified procedures.
• Enhance space diplomacy—especially with the Global South and major powers.
• Prioritize sustainability and responsible use of outer space.