India is unstoppable when it comes to space development, and the Science & Technology Minister Dr Jitendra Singh said that India will launch Vyommitra, a female robot astronaut to space ahead of the manned mission.

He was speaking at the Aaj Tak Agenda.

Isro's ambitious Gaganyaan project is set to demonstrate India's capability in human spaceflight. Before the manned mission, a test flight carrying 'Vyommitra,' a female robot astronaut, is scheduled for next year. Additionally, the Deep Sea Mission project, expected to be realised within three years, will explore deep-sea resources, showcasing India's prowess not only in outer space but also in the ocean's depths.

India's space sector is on a trajectory of rapid growth, Dr Singh announced and added that the nation's space economy, currently valued at a modest $8 billion, is projected to reach an impressive $40 billion by 2040.

This projection aligns with international observers' even more optimistic potential of $100 billion, as cited in the Arthur D. Little (ADL) Report. He emphasised the significant strides made in attracting private investment to space startups, which have collectively raised over Rs. 1,000 crore since April of this financial year.

The minister credited PM Modi's reforms for the exponential increase in the number of space startups in India. From just one startup in 2014, the country now boasts 190 space startups, with some already evolving into profitable enterprises. This surge in entrepreneurial activity in space sector is a testament to the government's commitment to fostering innovation & private participation.

Isro, India's premier space agency, has been instrumental in earning foreign revenue through satellite launches. To date, it has launched over 430 foreign satellites, generating substantial income—more than 290 million Euros from European satellites and over 170 million US Dollars from American satellites.

Dr. Singh also highlighted the cost-effectiveness of India's space missions, drawing a comparison between the expensive Russian moon mission and India's Chandrayaan-3 mission, which was accomplished at a fraction of the cost. He attributed this efficiency to India's rich human resources and skills.

The Union Minister pointed out that space technology in India is not just about exploration but also about practical applications that touch everyday lives.