New Delhi - Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Vikram Sarabhai Space Center (VSSC) in Thiruvananthapuram alongside Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) Chairman S Somnath on Tuesday.
The Prime Minister inaugurated three significant space infrastructure projects, collectively valued at approximately Rs 1800 crore. These projects include the SLV Integration Facility (PIF) at Satish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota, the new 'Semi-Cryogenics Integrated Engine and Stage Test Facility' at the ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri, and the 'Trisonic Wind Tunnel' at VSSC, Thiruvananthapuram.
Addressing the gathering, Modi emphasized India's expanding presence in the global space arena, noting the country's advancements in space technology. He urged everyone to focus on the tricolor, space, and the aspirations of India's 1.4 billion citizens.
The Prime Minister also reviewed the progress of the Gaganyaan mission and conferred 'astronaut wings' upon the four selected astronauts. The astronauts - Group Captain Prashant Balakrishnan Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, Group Captain Angad Pratap, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla - were hailed as the pioneers who will carry India's aspirations into space.
Highlighting the significance of the Gaganyaan mission, Modi likened the astronauts to the embodiment of India's ambitions in space exploration. He emphasized that India is poised to create history as it prepares to send an Indian into space after four decades, with the entire mission being indigenous.
Reflecting on India's recent achievements in space, Modi recalled the country's feat of planting its flag on the south pole of the Moon last year, making it the first nation to do so. He stated that India's space program, including the Gaganyaan mission, is a testament to the nation's growing prowess in space technology.
The Prime Minister expressed pride in the fact that much of the equipment used in the Gaganyaan mission is 'Made in India'. He noted that India's journey towards becoming one of the top three economies globally aligns with its aspirations to elevate its space sector to new heights.
