ISRO gives India more space in the world

Context:

India is technologically and economically far behind China, but it can show off its capabilities in one domain: space.

ISRO's Changing Perceptions and Achievements

• ISRO's Remarkable Journey: ISRO, the Indian Space Research Organisation, is undergoing a rebranding phase, propelled by its recent successes including lunar missions and a Mars orbiter.
• Advancing on the Global Stage: The organization is gearing up for a solar probe and a manned mission, reflecting India's evolving role in the global arena.
• The Lingering Irony: Despite these achievements, a long-standing irony remains – India, a spacefaring nation, grapples with challenges like food security, education, and poverty at home.

Evolution of India's Space Program

• From Jugaad to Scientific Excellence: India's early space endeavors were often associated with frugality and jugaad (resourcefulness), epitomized by missions like Mangalyaan, which garnered global attention for its cost-effectiveness.
• Cost effective efforts: However, ISRO's success also involves scientific innovation, such as utilizing angular momentum to reduce fuel usage and the country's cost-effective inputs.
• Become a global example: India's space objectives differ from technologically advanced nations, focusing on development, earth sciences, and national integration rather than space tourism or planetary colonization.

Geopolitical Significance of India's Space Program

• ISRO's Geopolitical Role: ISRO's space program serves as a geopolitical signal, showcasing India's capabilities in the global arena, particularly concerning China's maritime ambitions.
• India's Lunar Mission: India's lunar mission, aimed at putting an Indian on the moon, reflects its determination to assert influence and competence.
• Compelling Message to the World: Despite the ongoing irony of domestic challenges, India's lunar mission sends a compelling message to the world about its capabilities and aspirations.