Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said the country sees space as the future of tomorrow's economy.

He made the remark during an event in New Delhi where he felicitated Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, Group Captain PB Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, and Group Captain Angad Pratap.

They are part of ISRO’s maiden Gaganyaan space mission.

Speaking on the occasion, Singh described the four Gaganyatris as gems of the country and pioneers of national aspirations.

Highlighting the expanding presence of India in space, Rajnath Singh said “We do not see space only as a field of research, but as the future of tomorrow's economy, security, energy, and humanity. We’re steadily advancing beyond the Earth’s surface into new frontiers of space. We’ve already marked our presence from Moon to Mars, and today, the nation stands fully prepared for missions like Gaganyaan."

Singh termed the achievement as not merely a technological milestone, but a new chapter in Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

“India proudly stands tall among the world’s leading space powers. Its space programme is not confined to laboratories and launch vehicles. It’s a reflection of our national aspirations and global vision. From Chandrayaan to Mangalyaan, we have demonstrated that even with limited resources, an unlimited willpower can transform the most challenging goals into remarkable accomplishments," he said.

Singh pointed out that the technologies derived from space, be it communication satellites, weather monitoring or disaster management are delivering services to every village and every field across India and emphasised that India cannot stay behind in the space journey.

"In the coming times, space mining, deep space exploration, and planetary resources will redefine the course of human civilisation," he said.

Singh said that the world has entered an era where space is no longer a symbol of military power or technical prowess, but a new stage in the collective journey of human civilisation.

“India has always given the message of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam to the world. And, today, our scientists and astronauts are taking the same message to new heights," he said.

Commending Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla for his successful space mission, Singh highlighted the officer’s determination and courage which reflect the spirit of India, making him a source of national pride.

“Completing a two-and-a-half year’s training in just two-and-a-half months, Group Captain Shukla's remarkable testament showcased his personal dedication and the perseverance of the Indian people. His extraordinary feat is not just a technological achievement, it is a message of faith and dedication. It is not just India’s pride, it is proof of the progress of entire humanity,” he said.