India to Have Its Own Space Station, the "Indian Space Station," by 2035
In a historic collaboration marking a new era of innovation in space and biotechnology, ISRO and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
In a historic collaboration marking a new era of innovation in space and biotechnology, ISRO and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasized that the ISRO-DBT MoU will advance India into a new age of space and biotechnology innovation.
Reaching New Heights in Biotechnology: Dr. Jitendra Singh praised the landmark ISRO-DBT collaboration
India is set to establish its own space station by 2035, to be named the "Indian Space Station."
This announcement was made by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for the Ministry of Science and Technology, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Department of Atomic Energy, and Department of Space, while addressing the media following the historic MoU signing between ISRO and DBT.
This significant MoU symbolizes a unique partnership aimed at integrating space technology with biotechnology, paving the way for a new era of scientific innovation in India.
Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted biotechnology's transformative journey, which was traditionally confined to laboratories but now reaches into the vast expanse of space. He emphasized that this MoU represents a crucial step forward in moving beyond theoretical research to practical applications in biotechnology.
The Minister commended ISRO Chairman S. Somanath and DBT Secretary Dr. Rajesh Gokhale for their efforts in making this collaboration possible. He noted the visionary leadership that has driven both departments to this historic milestone and acknowledged their journey toward success.
Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored the importance of public-private partnerships that have played a crucial role in accelerating India’s space sector. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for opening up the space sector to private companies, which has led to increased innovation and entrepreneurship, with nearly 300 startups now contributing to the space economy.
He also spoke on the growing significance of biotechnology, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, recognizing DBT's role in developing the first DNA vaccine, which earned India global recognition for its scientific capabilities.
The MoU outlines several major initiatives, including the establishment of the Indian Space Station and the unveiling of the BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) policy. This policy aims to foster high-performance bio-manufacturing in the country, with a target to reach a $300 billion bio-economy by 2030. The collaboration will focus on areas such as microgravity research, space biotechnology, space bio-manufacturing, bioastronautics, and space biology.
The partnership is expected to benefit the national human space program and promote innovations in human health research, novel pharmaceuticals, regenerative medicine, and bio-based technologies for efficient waste management and recycling. This will also open opportunities for startups in space and biotechnology to develop commercially viable technological solutions.
Concluding his address, Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed optimism for the future, envisioning a new era in bio-space sciences and space biology. He highlighted the potential for unprecedented research and innovation that this collaboration could unlock, benefiting not only India but the world at large.
This historic ISRO-DBT partnership will pave the way for remarkable advancements in science and technology, strengthening India's position as a global leader in innovation.
Marking the high-level commitment and collaborative spirit driving this historic partnership, ISRO Chairman S. Somanath, DBT Secretary Dr. Rajesh Gokhale, ICGEB Director Dr. Ramesh V. Sonti, DBT’s Chief Scientist Dr. Alka Sharma, and other senior officials were present at the event.