Nation

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; New Delhi | July 18 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated the team behind the successful launch of Vikram-1, India's first privately developed orbital launch vehicle, describing the achievement as a landmark moment in the country's rapidly growing space programme.

The launch vehicle was successfully lifted off from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota on Saturday. Developed by Skyroot Aerospace, Vikram-1 marks a major milestone for India's private space sector, reflecting the country's growing emphasis on encouraging innovation and private participation in space exploration and satellite launch services.

The successful mission is regarded as a significant step in India's efforts to strengthen its commercial space ecosystem. Vikram-1 is the first orbital-class launch vehicle designed and built entirely by an Indian private company, demonstrating the increasing capabilities of the country's emerging space technology industry.

The successful launch, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the Skyroot Aerospace team and praised their achievement in a message shared on the social media platform X.

The Prime Minister said that he had spoken with the team at Skyroot Aerospace and personally congratulated them on the successful launch of Vikram-1.

In his message, Modi described the mission as a "landmark moment" in India's space journey, stating that the growing participation of the private sector is opening new horizons and accelerating innovation across the country's space ecosystem.

He further said that the success of Vikram-1 would inspire countless young Indians to dream bigger and pursue innovation with confidence and determination.

The Prime Minister, the achievement reflects the remarkable progress India has made in expanding opportunities for private enterprises in the space sector. Over the past few years, the Government of India has introduced several policy reforms aimed at encouraging private companies to participate in satellite manufacturing, launch vehicle development, space research, and commercial space services.

The successful launch of Vikram-1 is expected to strengthen India's position in the global space industry by showcasing the technological capabilities of its private aerospace companies. Industry experts believe the mission could pave the way for increased commercial satellite launches, greater investment in space technology, and stronger collaboration between government agencies and private enterprises.

Skyroot Aerospace has emerged as one of India's leading private space startups, focusing on the development of cost-effective launch vehicles designed to place satellites into orbit. The successful launch of Vikram-1 represents a major achievement not only for the company but also for India's broader ambition to become a leading global hub for space innovation and commercial launch services.

With Vikram-1 successfully entering the next chapter of India's space programme, the mission is being celebrated as a defining moment for the country's private aerospace industry. The achievement underscores the growing role of Indian startups in advancing cutting-edge technology and is expected to inspire a new generation of scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs to contribute to India's future in space exploration.