IOP News Desk
New Delhi, Nov 18, 2023: Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh stated today that air travel in India is no longer limited to the elite class.
During the celebration of the Aeronautical Society of India's (AeSI) 75th anniversary on Saturday, Dr Jitendra Singh credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for making air travel affordable and accessible to the common man.
He mentioned initiatives like UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik), the increase in the number of airports, and affordable airfare. He also highlighted that it is now common to see people wearing casual footwear boarding flights.
This achievement is not only due to affordable airfare but also because the number of airports has more than doubled in the past nine years, from 75 in 2014 to over 150 today, according to the Minister.
Regarding the Aeronautical and Space sectors, Dr Jitendra Singh shared that India plans to have its own Space Station by 2035 and an Indian astronaut landing on the Moon by 2040, following the successful indigenous Maiden Manned Mission Gaganyaan in 2025.
Dr Jitendra Singh praised the Aeronautical Society of India (AeSI) for its role in fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth in the aerospace industry in the country.
He emphasized that India's progress in science and technology, particularly in aviation and aerospace, during the past decade under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's leadership, demonstrates the commitment to pushing boundaries. The unlocking of the Space Sector in 2020 has led to a significant increase in deep tech Start-Ups in the sector, from only 4-5 in 2014 to around 150 currently.
Dr Jitendra Singh expressed confidence in India's future in aerospace technology, with the government's continued support for the scientific community and initiatives like Make in India, which promote indigenous production and innovation.
He highlighted India's achievements in the aerospace sector, including missions like Chandrayaan-3, Mars Orbiter Mission, Aditya L1, Gangayaan, the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, and advanced missile systems developed by DRDO and other organizations. These accomplishments showcase India's capabilities on the global stage and are a result of a collaborative approach involving science, government, and society.
Dr Jitendra Singh commended the International Conference Exhibition on Aerospace & Aviation in 2047 as a platform for knowledge-sharing and collaboration. He encouraged the pursuit of excellence in science and technology and urged everyone to dream big, innovate boldly, and work together to make India a leader in aerospace technology.
In conclusion, Dr Jitendra Singh extended his best wishes for the success of the conference and the continued achievements of the Aeronautical Society of India. He expressed hope for India to reach new heights, explore uncharted territories, and contribute to the scientific legacy of the nation.