Cabinet Colleagues, all scientists and engineers of ISRO and the space sector, and my beloved countrymen! 

My warmest greetings to all of you on National Space Day. This year, the theme of Space Day is 'Aryabhatta to Gaganyaan: Ancient Wisdom to Infinite Possibilities'. It embodies the confidence of the past as well as the resolve of the future. Today, we are witnessing how, in such a short span of time, National Space Day has become an occasion of enthusiasm and inspiration for our youth. This is indeed a matter of immense pride for the nation. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all those associated with the space sector, to our scientists, and to all the youth on National Space Day. Recently, Bharat hosted the 'International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics'. In this competition, nearly 300 young participants from more than 60 countries across the world took part. Our Indian youth also won medals. This Olympiad is a symbol of India’s emerging leadership in the space sector.

Friends, 

I am delighted that to kindle greater interest in space among our youth, ISRO has also launched initiatives such as the Indian Space Hackathon and the Robotics Challenge. I warmly congratulate all the students who participated in these competitions as well as the winners.

Friends,

In the space sector, achieving one milestone after another has now become second nature for Bharat and for our scientists. Just two years ago, Bharat became the first country in history to reach the South Pole of the Moon. We have also become the fourth country in the world with the capability of docking and undocking in space. Only three days ago, I had the opportunity to meet Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla. By unfurling the Tricolour at the International Space Station, he filled every Indian with pride. When he showed me that Tricolour, that moment, that experience, was beyond words. In my conversation with Group Captain Shubhanshu, I saw the boundless courage and infinite dreams of the youth of New Bharat. To take these dreams forward, we are also preparing an Astronaut Pool for Bharat. On this Space Day, I invite my young friends to join this Astronaut Pool and give wings to the dreams of Bharat.

Friends, 

Today Bharat is rapidly advancing in breakthrough technologies such as the semi-cryogenic engine and electric propulsion. Very soon, through the hard work of all our scientists, Bharat will launch Gaganyaan, and in the coming years, Bharat will also build its own space station. We have already reached the Moon and Mars. Now we must delve deeper into those regions of space where many vital mysteries for the future of humanity are concealed. Beyond galaxies lies our horizon!

Friends,

The infinite expanse of space constantly reminds us that no milestone is ever the final destination. I believe that even in the space sector, at the level of policy, there must never be a final halt/end point. That is why I had said from the ramparts of the Red Fort that our path is that of 'Reform, Perform and Transform. In the past eleven years, Bharat has carried out one major reform after another in the space sector. There was a time when futuristic sectors such as space were shackled with countless restrictions in our country. We broke those chains. We permitted the private sector to participate in space technology. And today, more than 350 start-ups have emerged as engines of innovation and acceleration in space-tech. Their strong presence can also be seen in this very event. Soon, the first PSLV rocket built by our private sector will be launched. I am also glad that Bharat's first private communication satellite is being developed. Through public-private partnership, preparations are underway to launch an Earth Observation Satellite Constellation as well. You can imagine the vast number of opportunities being created for Bharat's youth in the space sector.

Friends, 

On 15th August from the ramparts of the Red Fort, I spoke about many such areas where it is essential for Bharat to become self-reliant. I asked every sector to set its own targets. Today, on Space Day, I would like to say to our space start-ups: can we aim to create five unicorns in the space sector in the next five years? At present, we witness about five to six major launches annually from Indian soil. I would like the private sector to take the lead so that in the next five years we reach a stage where we launch fifty rockets every year. One every week! For this, the government has both the intent and the willpower to bring in the next-generation reforms that the nation requires. I assure you, the government will stand with you at every step.

Friends, 

Bharat regards space technology not only as a medium of scientific exploration but also as an instrument for Ease of Living. Today, space-tech is becoming an integral part of governance in Bharat. Whether it is satellite-based assessment in Fasal Bima Yojana, information and safety provided to fishermen through satellites, disaster management, or the use of geospatial data in the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, Bharat's advancements in space are making the lives of ordinary citizens easier. In this very direction, yesterday the 'National Meet 2.0' was also organised to enhance the use of space-tech at both the Centre and the state level. I would like such efforts to continue in the future. I also urge our space start-ups to create new solutions and innovations for the service of our citizens. I am confident that in the times to come, Bharat's journey into space will touch new heights. With this confidence, I once again extend my warmest greetings to you all on National Space Day.

Thank you!

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MJPS/VJ/IG