National Space Day: PM Modi Celebrates India's Space Milestones, Pays Tribute to Chandrayaan-3
New Delhi: As India marked its second National Space Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hailed the nation's remarkable journey in space exploration and paid glowing tribute to the success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission. The day, observed annually on August 23, commemorates the historic landing of the Vikram lander near the lunar south pole in 2023, making India the first country to achieve this feat.
In his address, the Prime Minister underscored the significance of the moment, describing Chandrayaan-3 as a testament to the skill and dedication of Indian scientists. He noted that the mission's success has not only elevated India's standing in the global space community but also inspired a new generation of students and researchers to pursue careers in science and technology. "The T- point on the Moon where Chandrayaan-3 landed will forever be a symbol of India's capability and resolve," he said, referring to the naming of the landing site as 'Tiranga Point'.
The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to reiterate the government's commitment to expanding India's space programme. He highlighted recent initiatives, including the opening of the space sector to private players and the upcoming Gaganyaan mission, which aims to send Indian astronauts into orbit. These steps, he said, align with the vision of a self-reliant India and ensure that the benefits of space technology reach every citizen.
Leaders from across the political spectrum also joined in saluting the achievements of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Opposition parties praised the scientific community for their relentless efforts and called for continued investment in research and development. The overall sentiment was one of bipartisan pride in India's space accomplishments.
The National Space Day was first announced by Prime Minister Modi in August 2023, shortly after the successful Chandrayaan-3 landing, to honour the ISRO team and to encourage a culture of innovation and scientific inquiry among the youth. This year's celebrations included exhibitions, interactive sessions with scientists, and workshops in schools and colleges across the country.
Experts point out that Chandrayaan-3's success has strengthened India's position as a key player in space exploration, with potential collaborations in lunar research and commercial satellite launches. As India continues to set ambitious goals, including the proposed Chandrayaan-4 mission and a space station by 2035, the nation looks forward to further milestones that promise to translate scientific curiosity into tangible benefits for humanity.
