India is no longer just a follower on the global stage; it is now leading in multiple fields, including space exploration, biotechnology, nuclear energy, and scientific research. Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and Minister of State for PMO, made this bold assertion during a recent address, highlighting India’s remarkable advancements and rising prominence in the world of science and technology.
India’s space sector has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. With ambitious missions and successful international collaborations, India has positioned itself as a key player in space exploration. The Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX), part of India’s growing technological capabilities, is paving the way for future missions such as Gaganyaan, Chandrayaan-4, and the Bharatiya Antariksh Station—India’s forthcoming international space station.
India’s rise in the space sector is underscored by its increasing role in satellite launches. Over the past decade, the country has launched 433 foreign satellites, earning substantial revenues—$157 million and €260 million—from 2014 to 2023. The success of Chandrayaan-3, which made India the first country to land near the Moon’s south pole, has propelled India to the forefront of lunar exploration. The global scientific community, including NASA, is now keenly awaiting India’s findings from the Moon’s southern pole.
India’s achievements in biotechnology and bioeconomy are equally impressive. The nation became the first to develop a DNA-based COVID-19 vaccine, cementing its leadership in vaccine research. Additionally, India introduced the world’s first herpesvirus vaccine for cervical cancer, further establishing itself as a global leader in preventive healthcare.
The bioeconomy has also flourished, growing from $10 billion in 2014 to nearly $140 billion today. Projections suggest it will reach $250 billion in the coming years, fueled by a surge in biotech startups—almost 9,000 today compared to just 50 in 2014. India is also gaining ground in bio-manufacturing, ranking third in the Asia-Pacific region and 12th globally, with its influence rapidly expanding.
India is also pioneering space biology, with significant investments in research focused on sustaining life beyond Earth. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Department of Biotechnology have signed an MoU to advance space biotechnology, focusing on growing plants in space to support long-term space missions. Research in space medicine and human physiology in extraterrestrial environments is expected to be crucial as humanity looks to expand its presence beyond Earth.
In nuclear energy, India has set an ambitious goal of generating 100 gigawatts of nuclear energy by 2047. This effort will contribute significantly to reducing carbon emissions by 50%, positioning India as a leader in sustainable energy development. India’s nuclear policy, originally envisioned by Homi Bhabha for peaceful purposes, is now viewed as a model of responsible energy development worldwide.
India’s standing in scientific research has gained global recognition. The country is now ranked fourth worldwide in scientific publications, and projections suggest it could surpass the United States to become the leading nation in scientific research by 2030. This growing dominance is also reflected in India’s space economy, which is expected to grow five to ten times in the next decade, further solidifying its leadership in science and bio-manufacturing.
Dr. Singh emphasized that India’s rise is no longer about catching up but about setting the global agenda.
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