India to build its own space station: PM

New Delhi, Aug 23: Prime Minister Narendra Modi Saturday said that India will establish its own space station in coming years.
In a video address on the occasion of National Space Day 2025, the Prime Minister extended his warm wishes, highlighting that this year’s theme, “From Aryabhata to Gaganyaan”, reflects both the confidence of India’s past and the resolve for its future. He remarked that in a short span of time, National Space Day has become an occasion of enthusiasm and attraction for India’s youth, which is a matter of national pride. He conveyed his greetings to all individuals associated with the space sector, including scientists and youth. Modi noted that India is currently hosting the International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics, with nearly 300 young participants from over sixty countries.
Modi expressed happiness that many Indian participants won medals in the event. He stated that this Olympiad is a symbol of India’s emerging global leadership in the space sector. The Prime Minister expressed happiness that to further spark interest in space among youth, ISRO has launched initiatives such as the Indian Space Hackathon and the Robotics Challenge. He congratulated all students and winners participating in these competitions.
“Achieving milestone after milestone in the space sector has become a natural trait of India and its scientists”, exclaimed Modi. Recalling that two years ago, India became the first country to reach the South Pole of the Moon, creating history, the Prime Minister highlighted that India has also become the fourth country in the world to possess docking-undocking capabilities in space. He shared that just three days ago, he met Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who unfurled the national flag at the International Space Station, filling every Indian with pride. He added that when Group Captain Shukla showed him the Tricolour, the feeling of touching it was beyond words.
Modi noted that in his interaction with Group Captain Shukla, he witnessed the boundless courage and infinite dreams of the youth of New India. To advance these dreams, the Prime Minister announced that India is preparing an “Astronaut Pool.” On Space Day, he invited young citizens to join this pool and help give flight to India’s aspirations.
“India is rapidly advancing in breakthrough technologies such as semi-cryogenic engines and electric propulsion. Soon, thanks to the tireless efforts of Indian scientists—India will launch the Gaganyaan mission and in the coming years, India will also establish its own space station”, highlighted the Prime Minister. He added that India has already reached the Moon and Mars, and now must explore deeper regions of space. Emphasising that these unexplored areas hold vital secrets for the future of humanity, the Prime Minister said, “Beyond galaxies lies our horizon!”
Modi remarked that the infinite expanse of space constantly reminds us that no destination is ever final. He emphasized that, similarly, there should be no finality in policy-level progress within the space sector. Recalling his address from the Red Fort, the Prime Minister reiterated that India’s path is one of Reform, Perform, and Transform. He stated that over the past eleven years, the country has implemented a series of major reforms in the space sector. Noting that there was a time when futuristic sectors like space were bound by numerous restrictions, Modi affirmed that these constraints have been lifted, and the private sector has been granted permission to participate in space-tech.
He highlighted that today, over 350 startups are emerging as engines of innovation and acceleration in space technology with their active participation in today’s programme. The Prime Minister announced that the first PSLV rocket built by the private sector will soon be launched. He expressed happiness that India’s first private communication satellite is also under development. He added that preparations are underway to launch an Earth Observation Satellite Constellation through Public-Private Partnership. “A vast number of opportunities are being created for India’s youth in the space sector”, added the PM.
Recalling his address from the Red Fort on August 15, 2025, where he emphasized the importance of self-reliance across multiple sectors, the Prime Minister stated that each sector has been encouraged to set its own goals. Addressing India’s space startups, posing a challenge, Modi asked, “Can we build five unicorns in the space sector over the next five years?”. He noted that currently, India witnesses 5–6 major launches annually from its soil.
The Prime Minister expressed his desire for the private sector to step forward so that India reaches a stage where 50 rockets are launched every year within the next five years. He affirmed that the government possesses both the intent and the willpower to implement the next-generation reforms required to achieve this vision. The Prime Minister assured the space community that the government stands firmly with them at every step.
Prime Minister stated that India views space technology not only as a tool for scientific exploration but also as a means to enhance Ease of Living. “Space-tech is increasingly becoming an integral part of governance in India”, said Modi citing examples such as satellite-based assessment in crop insurance schemes, satellite-enabled information and safety for fishermen, disaster management applications, and the use of geospatial data in the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan. He emphasized that India’s progress in space is directly contributing to making everyday life easier for its citizens.
The Prime Minister informed that to further promote the use of space-tech across central and state governments, National Meet 2.0 was organized yesterday. He expressed his desire for such initiatives to continue and expand. The Prime Minister encouraged space startups to develop new solutions and innovations aimed at public service. He concluded with confidence that India’s journey in space will reach new heights in the coming times, and once again extended his best wishes to all on National Space Day.
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, Officials from ISRO, scientists and engineers were present among other dignitaries at the event. (PIB)