In a stirring address at the Global Conference on Space Exploration (GLEX) 2025, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi reflected on India’s extraordinary journey in space, calling it a testament to human curiosity, courage, and the spirit of collective advancement. Speaking via videoconference to a global audience of scientists, astronauts, and space leaders, he eloquently stated that space is not merely a destination but a declaration—a bold expression of our shared dreams and determination.
The Prime Minister spoke with pride about how far India has come since launching its first rocket in 1963. Today, the country stands tall as a leader in space innovation, with milestones like reaching Mars on the first attempt, discovering water on the Moon, and achieving a successful soft landing near the lunar South Pole. “Indian rockets carry more than payloads—they carry the dreams of 1.4 billion Indians,” he said, capturing the emotional and aspirational essence of the nation’s efforts in space.
Highlighting the achievements of Chandrayaan missions and the development of indigenous cryogenic technology, he noted India’s capabilities in deploying satellites not just for itself but for 34 other nations as well. This spirit of service and cooperation underpins India’s space philosophy—one that prioritizes shared growth and knowledge for the greater good of humanity. He reiterated that India’s progress is not a race against others but a journey forward together.
Shri Modi also emphasized India’s commitment to regional and global cooperation in space. From launching a satellite for South Asian countries to proposing the G20 Satellite Mission to support the Global South, India continues to show that its space vision extends beyond borders. He announced that an Indian astronaut will soon travel to the International Space Station through a joint mission with NASA, and outlined an ambitious future that includes the Bharatiya Antariksha Station by 2035 and landing an Indian on the Moon by 2040. Mars and Venus are also part of India’s long-term plans.
The Prime Minister was particularly proud to acknowledge the increasing role of women scientists in India’s space missions—a symbol of empowerment and progress. He highlighted how space technology is improving the lives of everyday Indians, from weather forecasting to railway safety and the GatiShakti logistics platform. He also celebrated the rise of over 250 space startups, a sign of India’s commitment to fostering innovation and nurturing young talent in the sector.
Rooted in the timeless Indian philosophy of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’—the world is one family—India’s space program, according to Shri Modi, is as much about global benefit as it is about national pride. His address was not just a reflection of technological prowess but a heartfelt appeal for unity, shared exploration, and a brighter, more connected future for all humankind.
In closing, he called for a renewed era of space exploration—one guided by science, mutual respect, and the limitless potential of collective human ambition.