Sriharikota, India – January 29, 2025: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a historic milestone today with the successful launch of the GSLV-F15/NVS-02 mission, marking its 100th launch. Union Minister of State for Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh, lauded the event as a “quantum leap” in India’s space journey, emphasizing the rapid advancements made under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.
Reflecting on ISRO’s evolution, Dr. Singh noted that it took more than two decades to establish the first launch pad in 1993, and another decade to build the second in 2004. However, in the past decade, the organization has witnessed unprecedented growth, with the establishment of a third launch pad in Sriharikota and the development of a new launch site in Tamil Nadu’s Tuticorin district, initiated by Prime Minister Modi in February 2024.
Dr. Singh highlighted the growing role of private sector participation in India’s space sector. From fewer than ten space startups in 2021, the number has surged to nearly 300, contributing significantly to the economy with an investment of ₹1,000 crore in 2023 alone. He projected the space economy’s current valuation of $8 billion to soar to $44 billion by 2035, positioning India as a global leader in the commercial space sector.
India’s dominance in international satellite launches is another testament to ISRO’s capabilities. Dr. Singh revealed that 90% of foreign satellite launches are conducted through ISRO, reflecting global confidence in its technology and expertise. He attributed these successes to reforms that have opened the space sector to private players, fostering innovation and international collaborations.
Dr. Singh also celebrated the contributions of ISRO’s early pioneers, including Vikram Sarabhai and Satish Dhawan, whose visionary leadership laid the foundation for the organization’s success.
The 100th launch symbolizes India’s accelerated progress in space exploration, transitioning from gradual development to transformative growth. With new infrastructure, increasing private sector engagement, and record investments, India is set to achieve even greater milestones in the global space economy.
Source:PIB
