India has set its sights on bold space goals. On Friday, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) revealed an ambitious roadmap that includes building a Bharatiya Antriksh Station (BAS) by 2035, launching a Moon sample return mission by 2040, and taking up several groundbreaking projects in the coming decades.

ISRO chief outlines vision

ISRO chairman V Narayanan announced the plans while addressing National Space Day. He said: “Based on the Prime Minister’s vision, we are going to have Chandrayaan-4 and a Venus Orbiter Mission. By 2028, we will launch the first module of BAS, which will be fully operational by 2035.”

Narayanan also confirmed that work on a Next Generation Launcher (NGL) has been cleared. “By 2040, India will not only land on the Moon but also bring samples back safely. At that point, our space programme will be at par with any leading space agency in the world,” he added.

PM Modi praises scientists

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who joined the celebrations, said India’s progress has earned global recognition in space exploration. “Achieving new milestones one after another in the space sector has become the nature of India and Indian scientists,” he remarked.

He reminded the audience of India’s historic achievement two years ago. “Just two years ago, India created history by becoming the first country to reach the South Pole of the Moon. We have reached the Moon and Mars, and now we have to take a peek into deep space,” Modi said.

Inspiration from space heroes

The Prime Minister also recalled his recent interaction with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who displayed the tricolour aboard the International Space Station. “The moment when he showed me the tricolour is beyond words,” PM Modi said. “In him, I saw the immense courage and infinite dreams of New India’s youth. To take these dreams forward, we are preparing India’s own astronaut pool, and I invite young friends to join and give wings to India’s aspirations.”

Focus on innovation and technology

Modi further highlighted advancements in semi-cryogenic engines and electric propulsion systems. He also praised initiatives such as the Indian Space Hackathon and Robotics Challenge, which aim to encourage innovation among young scientists and students.

National Space Day’s significance

National Space Day is celebrated every year to mark India’s historic achievements in space. This year, it also served as a platform to showcase India’s long-term vision — a future that now includes a dedicated space station, interplanetary missions, and deeper ventures into space.