Speaking at the convocation ceremony of the Central Agricultural University in Imphal, Manipur, Narayanan said that 10 Indian satellites are currently operating round the clock for strategic purposes
India is becoming a “vibrant space power” and will have its first space station by 2040, ISRO chairman Dr V Narayanan said on Sunday, highlighting the role of space technology in safeguarding national security.
Speaking at the convocation ceremony of the Central Agricultural University in Imphal, Manipur, Narayanan said that 10 Indian satellites are currently operating round the clock for strategic purposes. “I am happy to inform you that today, 10 satellites are continuously working 24/7 for a strategic purpose to ensure the safety and security of the citizens of the country,” he said.
His comments come amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, following the launch of Operation Sindoor on 7 May – a military action targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in response to the Pahalgam terror attack.
The ISRO chief stressed the importance of space-based monitoring systems. “If we have to ensure the safety of our country, we have to serve through our satellites. We have to monitor our 7,000km seashore. We have to monitor the entire northern part continuously. Without satellite and drone technology, we can’t achieve that,” he said.
Narayanan also noted that India has launched 433 satellites from 34 countries, underlining the country’s global role in space collaboration.
He announced that ISRO is currently developing a satellite for G20 nations, aimed at studying climate change, tracking air pollution, and monitoring weather patterns.
Describing India’s technological journey since Independence as “phenomenal and outstanding”, Narayanan reaffirmed ISRO’s commitment to leveraging space capabilities for both domestic and international benefit.
