India has announced an ambitious plan to set up its own space station, called the Bharatiya Antariksh Station, with the goal of making it operational by 2035. This ambitious project was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 79th Independence Day celebrations, reflecting the country’s growing aspiration for self-reliance and leadership in space exploration. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is at the forefront of this mission, aiming to install the first module in orbit as early as 2028 and complete the full station by 2035.
Why a Space Station?
A space station will allow India to carry out extended human presence in space—enabling advanced scientific experiments and research. It marks a significant shift from India’s earlier achievements in launching satellites and planetary missions to embarking on longer, sustainable space journeys. This project will place India among a select group of nations—such as the United States, Russia, and China—who have developed their own space stations.
Youth Power and Innovation
One of the most remarkable aspects of this venture is the involvement of young engineers and scientists. According to PM Modi, thousands of Indian youths and more than 300 space startups are actively working to bring this dream to reality. He highlighted this as a sign of India’s rising confidence in its youth and innovative capacity. The project is expected to open up new opportunities for research and collaboration, strengthening India’s position in global space diplomacy and technological innovation.
The Road Ahead
The Bharatiya Antariksh Station is a key part of ISRO’s broader goals, which include the Gaganyaan manned mission planned for 2027, along with upcoming missions to the Moon and Venus. As India moves towards greater independence in space technology, this space station symbolizes national achievement and seeks to motivate future generations while strengthening India’s scientific capabilities in space exploration.
