India’s advancements in space technology have reached new heights, driven by a clear aim to establish itself as a prominent player in space exploration. After the historic Chandrayaan-3 mission that achieved a successful landing close to the moon’s south pole, India is preparing for Chandrayaan-4, which aims to collect samples from the lunar surface.
This progress is supported by government policies that focus on boosting technological independence, encouraging private companies, and working with other countries.
Lunar exploration advances as India plans to gather moon samples (Photo: Twitter)
Government plans include building an independent Indian space station by the year 2035 and launching a crewed mission to the moon by 2040. Strengthening ISRO’s capabilities alongside promoting private sector involvement has created the right environment for India’s space programme to expand further.
India’s recent successes in space missions have attracted worldwide attention. The Chandrayaan-3 mission’s landing near the moon’s south pole was a landmark moment for the country. Following this achievement, Chandrayaan-4 is expected to show India’s continued expertise in studying the moon by gathering samples from its icy regions.
Space policy in India strongly supports inclusiveness, both in terms of technological innovation and providing opportunities for young people. The “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative has accelerated efforts to produce space technology indigenously, covering satellites, rockets, and advanced research instruments.
The creation of organisations such as NewSpace India Limited and the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center has encouraged private companies to actively participate in space missions, promoting healthy competition in technological developments.
Empowerment of youth is a key part of this inclusive approach, especially reaching out to those from underprivileged areas. SpaceKidz India, a known aerospace startup, is leading this charge by inspiring and educating young minds about space science and technology.
The organisation focuses on hands-on education and has helped over one million students, many from rural or smaller towns, get involved in space-related activities. SpaceKidz India stands as the only Indian group to have designed and launched 27 missions successfully, including over 18 Nano Satellites and 5 Orbital Satellites.
Among their major achievements is KalamSAT, recognised as the world’s lightest nano-satellite, which NASA successfully launched.
Dr Srimathy Kesan, founder of SpaceKidz India, describes their work: “Our organisation offers students practical experience in designing, building, and launching payloads and spacecraft. We have reached tier-2 towns where access to advanced technology is usually very limited. This inspires young people to engage in scientific research and innovation.”
A huge contribution from SpaceKidz India is its focus on gender inclusion. The AzaadiSAT mission launched in August 2022, celebrating India’s 75th Independence anniversary, involved 750 girls from across the country.
The mission sought to motivate young women to pursue careers in STEM fields, echoing Prime Minister Modi’s vision of an inclusive and diverse space ecosystem.
This satellite, launched on ISRO’s Small Satellite Launch Vehicle, carried instruments like radiation sensors and communication equipment, marking a key step for promoting gender equality in space technology.
ShakthiSAT mission
The ShakthiSAT mission by SpaceKidz India shows the country’s growing role in international space partnerships. Through this mission, SpaceKidz India is training 12,000 girls from 108 countries in space technology.
The historic Chandrayaan-3 landing marks a giant leap for India (Photo: Shutterstock)
The programme provides a 120-hour online course, after which one candidate from each country will be selected to come to India for practical experience in building the spacecraft meant for lunar orbit.
This global effort encourages gender-inclusive education and strengthens worldwide collaboration in space exploration. Countries participating include Nigeria, Guyana, and Brazil, and the project also enhances India’s diplomatic connections, demonstrating its dedication to a cooperative, inclusive space community.
PM Heads to Nigeria, Brazil & Guyana
Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visits to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana will place space cooperation at the forefront of discussions. These visits underline India’s commitment to international partnerships, especially in the area of space exploration.
The conversations will focus on sharing best practices, exchanging knowledge, and planning joint space missions. These engagements fit with Modi’s vision of India as a partner that leads through innovation, inclusivity, and shared progress.
Among the 108 countries involved in ShakthiSAT are ambassadors such as Ms Isadora Stefanhak Costa Arantes from Brazil, the country’s first female astronaut candidate and NASA Ambassador for Astrobiology, as well as Mrs Temitope Adeniyi from Nigeria, an award-winning doctoral researcher focused on quantum technology and artificial intelligence at Cleveland State University. Soon, a female leader from Guyana will join as an ambassador, expanding the project’s global reach.
Dr Kesan emphasises, “Our Prime Minister often highlights the idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakkam, meaning ‘the world is one’. At SpaceKidz India, we share this belief deeply. Our work in bringing 108 countries together through ShakthiSAT shows our strong commitment to international collaboration and promoting gender-inclusive STEM education.”
