We must keep enchancing our space capabilities: Modi

"Continued progress in space must remain a national mission. We must keep enhancing our space capabilities," said Modi, congratulating the scientists as the PSLV-C23 lifted off carrying fivel foreign satellites. The launch is seen as a milestone in India's space programme and put India in the elite group.

PSLV-C23 was launched at 9.52 a.m. PSLV-C23  is carrying SPOT-7, a 714 kg, French earth observing satellite as the main payload besides other satellites like 14 kg AISAT of Germany, NLS7.1 (CAN-X4) & NLS7.2 (CAN-X5) of Canada each weighing 15 kg and the 7 kg VELOX-1 of Singapore.

"I also ask you, to enlarge the footprint of our satellite-based navigation system, to cover all of South Asia," said the PM.

"Today, I ask our Space community, to take up the challenge, of developing a SAARC Satellite," he said.

Modi said India's Space programme is driven by a vision of service to humanity and not by a desire of power.

"I urge Department of Space, to proactively engage with all stakeholders, to maximize use of space science in Governance and Development. Accurate advanced warning, and tracking of Cyclone Phailin, saved countless lives recently," he said.

He said Satellite communication channels, often end up being the only mode of communication.

He said space technology has also evolved into an invaluable asset in disaster management while GIS technology has transformed policy planning, implementation. "Space imaging enables modern management, conservation of water resources," he said.

"Technology has a critical role in realizing the vision of a Digital India – the power of 125 crore connected Indians," said Modi.

"Such technology is fundamentally connected with the common man. As a change agent, it can empower and connect, to transform his life," said the PM.

He lauded the scientists. "This Sadhna you have done in the lab has the power to change the lives of millions of people," he said. PM said the launch filled every Indian's heart with pride and "I can see the joy and satisfaction on your faces."

Modi said "our ancestors had conceived of ideas like ‘Shunya’ and ‘flying objects’, long before others."

"We are proud that our programme is indigenous. Generations of scientists have worked to make India a self-reliant space power. Our space journey has come a long way from the humble beginnings," said the PM.

"Even today's satellites are from developed nations. Truly, this is a global endorsement of our space capability," said the PM referring to the PSLV-C23 which carried satellites from foreign nations like Canada, Singapore, Germany, etc.

"This is a domain where we are the international cutting edge. We have achieved excellent and cut beyond mediocrity," he said.

"India’s Space programme is a perfect example of my vision of Scale, Speed and Skill," said the PM

"Technology is central to Development. It touches one and all, and is an important instrument of our national progress," said the PM

The PM said: "Could we also think of developing, a state-of-the-art, interactive, digital Space Museum."

He said he was delighted to see four generations of scientists at the ISRO centre "and this is a big sign of progress."

"India has the potential, to be the launch service provider of the world. We must work towards this goal," he said.