PM hails scientists for space docking of satellites in Mann Ki Baat

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that the country is setting new benchmarks in space technology, with visionary scientists and innovators providing solutions to future challenges. Addressing the nation in the 118th episode of his Mann Ki Baat programme on Akashvani on Sunday, Modi commended the nation’s recent achievements in the space sector.
Lauding the Bengaluru-based Indian Space-Tech start-up, ‘Pixxel’ for successfully launching the country’s first private satellite constellation ‘Firefly’, the Prime Minister called it a significant step towards self-reliance. He said, this accomplishment highlights India’s position as a leader in modern space technology and reflects the growing strength and innovation of the private space sector.
Modi also applauded the space docking of satellites, saying that this technology is important for sending supplies to space stations and crew missions in space. He said, India has become the fourth country to achieve this success. He pointed out the efforts of scientists in growing plants in space and noted that ISRO scientists successfully germinated cowpea seeds there. Terming this as an inspiring experiment, Modi said, it will pave the way for growing vegetables in space in future. He also appreciated IIT Madras’s ExTeM Centre which is working on new technologies for manufacturing in space. This Centre is conducting research on technologies like 3D-printed buildings, metal foams and optical fibres in space. The Prime Minister said, research of ExTeM will strengthen the country’s Gaganyaan mission and the future space station and will also open new avenues of modern technology in manufacturing. He extended his best wishes to scientists, innovators and young entrepreneurs on behalf of the entire nation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his greetings in advance for the 75th Republic Day saying that this year’s celebration is particularly special as this year marks 75 years of the constitution coming into force.Modi saluted the members of Constituent Assembly who contributed in framing the Constitution. The Prime Minister remembered Baba Saheb Ambedkar, Dr. Rajendra Prasad and Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee saying that citizens must take inspiration from thoughts of these great leaders.
The Prime Minister also expressed happiness over the getting of GI Tag for Virgin coconut oil in Nicobar district. He said, Self-help groups are being formed by organizing the women associated with the production of this oil and they are also being imparted special training in marketing and branding. He said, this is a big step towards economically empowering tribal communities.