Indian Astronaut Set to Join International Space Station: Union Minister Jitendra Singh
In a major stride for Indo-US space collaboration, an Indian astronaut from the Gaganyaan Mission is set to join the International Space Station (ISS), Union Minister for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh announced. This marks a significant milestone in the ongoing partnership between India and the United States in space exploration and technology development.
Speaking at a key meeting on US-India Civil Nuclear Commerce, Dr. Singh highlighted the growing cooperation between the two nations in critical areas such as science, technology, and clean energy. He emphasized that the Indo-US partnership is crucial in securing global supply chains in sectors like semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, and clean energy technologies, which are essential for maintaining global economic stability.
During the meeting, the Minister underscored the importance of the Green Hydrogen Mission as a cornerstone of India’s strategy to decarbonize heavy industry, transportation, and power generation. He noted that the mission is central to fostering innovation in clean technologies and achieving global climate goals. Through comprehensive policy frameworks and international partnerships, India is positioning itself to lead the global transition to a sustainable and resilient energy future.
Dr. Singh also shared that the Indian government is actively exploring international collaborations, investing in research and development, and considering regulatory frameworks to facilitate the deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). These reactors, he said, will play a crucial role in India’s clean energy transition, contributing to energy self-reliance while fulfilling climate commitments.
Drawing comparisons between India’s 'Anusandhan' National Research Foundation (NRF) and the US’s National Science Foundation (NSF), the Minister highlighted the significant contributions both organizations make in advancing scientific research and driving innovation. He reaffirmed India’s dedication to the 'Panchamrit' climate action plan, which aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil energy capacity, reduce carbon emissions by 1 billion tons, and achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.
Dr. A K Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, stating that the Indo-US partnership goes beyond knowledge exchange to co-creating solutions that will shape future sustainable development and economic prosperity.
The meeting concluded with both nations reaffirming their commitment to strengthening cooperation in emerging technologies, mutual economic growth, and global technological leadership.