India Marks Landmark 100th Space Launch, Signaling Major Leap in Space Program
100th Successful Space Launch by ISRO
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a historic milestone today with its 100th successful launch from the Sriharikota spaceport. Union Minister of State for Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh, hailed the launch of the GSLV-F15/NVS-02 mission as a “quantum leap” in India’s space journey, marking a significant turning point in the nation’s rapid advancement in space exploration.
Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed his pride in being part of the Department of Space during this monumental occasion, highlighting the extraordinary achievements of ISRO under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Reflecting on the space program’s evolution, he noted that ISRO, established in 1969, faced years of slow progress, with the first launch pad being set up only in 1993 and the second one coming a decade later in 2004. However, over the last 10 years, India’s space sector has seen unparalleled growth in both infrastructure and investment.
“This 100th launch represents a leap forward that took over six decades to materialize. We are not only constructing a third launch pad in Sriharikota but also expanding to a new launch site in Tamil Nadu’s Tuticorin district, as laid out by Prime Minister Modi in February 2024,” Dr. Singh stated.
The Minister also underscored the rise of India’s private space sector, noting a surge in space startups. From just a handful in 2021, the number of startups has now approached 300, with many emerging as world-class enterprises. He emphasized that this rapid growth has translated into real economic impact, with investments reaching Rs 1,000 crore in 2023 alone. The country’s space economy, currently valued at $8 billion, is expected to soar to $44 billion over the next decade, solidifying India’s status as a key player in the global space market.
Dr. Singh also highlighted ISRO’s increasing role in global commercial space launches, with 90% of foreign satellite launches now being conducted through the Indian space agency. The reforms of the past decade, particularly the opening of the space sector to private players, have spurred innovation, investment, and international collaborations, strengthening India’s position as a space powerhouse.
In a social media post, Dr. Singh congratulated ISRO for its unwavering commitment to excellence, stating, “It’s a privilege to be associated with the Department of Space at this historic moment. Team ISRO, you have once again made India proud with the successful launch of GSLV-F15/NVS-02.”
Reflecting on the roots of India’s space program, he credited the visionary leadership of pioneers like Vikram Sarabhai and Satish Dhawan, whose early efforts laid the foundation for the country’s thriving space sector.
The 100th launch is not just a numerical achievement but a powerful symbol of India’s transformative progress in space exploration. With expanding infrastructure, growing private sector involvement, and a rapidly developing space economy, ISRO is poised to achieve even greater milestones in the years to come.
