Indian space sector is projected to surge to $44 billion in the near future, says Jitendra Singh

Singh has said that India's Space technology is no longer confined only to the launch of rockets, but is also playing a major role in revolutionising governance by supplementing transparency, grievance redressal and citizen participation.

In the process, there is reduced scope of corrupt practices, more discipline in observing timelines and less of so called red tapism, he added.

Addressing the ‘Space-Tech for Good Governance' Conclave organized by ‘Indian Institute of Democratic Leadership’, the Minister underscored the growing significance of India's space sector as an attractive avenue, not only for startups and livelihood generation but also for transforming the governance practices.

Emphasizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, Dr. Jitendra Singh explained how space technology is playing a pivotal role in bringing ease of living for common citizens through good governance.

In his inaugural address, Dr. Jitendra Singh captivated the audience by showcasing how India's space capabilities have expanded far beyond rocket launches. He revealed that space technology has now become integral to every Indian household, powering various governance services enabled by satellites from the Department of Space.

Calling Space Tech: A Pillar of Governance and Empowerment, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy and Department of Space, MoS Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions highlighted several governance models enabled by space technology, including the transformative "Swamitva Yojana". This initiative, which leverages satellite mapping for land record management, has empowered citizens by eliminating the need for reliance on revenue officials for land record verification.

Dr Jitendra Singh pointed out that space technology also plays a critical role in national defence, border surveillance, and geopolitical intelligence, contributing significantly to India's security.

The Minister also emphasized space technology’s role in India’s agricultural sector—one of the major pillars of the economy—stating that it has become an invaluable force multiplier in improving decision-making, weather forecasting, communication, disaster preparedness, early warning systems, urban planning, and security.

Addressing India’s growing stature in global space exploration, Dr. Jitendra Singh remarked, “Gone are the days when we used to take the lead from others. Now, India sets the cue for others to follow.”

He cited the successful Chandrayaan-3 mission, which made India the first nation to reach the southern pole of the Moon, as a prime example of India’s leadership in space technology.

The Union Minister credited Prime Minister Modi’s vision and bold steps in opening the space sector for private sector participation. He pointed to the National Space Innovation and Applications (NSIL) and In-SPACe, which have fostered collaboration between the government and non-government entities, driving India’s space economy to $8 billion.