Key Highlights
Union Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh announced today that India aims to land an astronaut on the moon by 2040, linking this mission to the national vision of Viksit Bharat—a developed India—well ahead of the 2047 target.
Singh outlined a comprehensive roadmap: an uncrewed space mission with robot Vyommitra slated for 2026, the maiden human spaceflight Gaganyaan expected in 2027, India’s first space station (Bharat Antariksh Station) operational by 2035, and the moon landing to herald India’s advanced technology power.
India’s Lunar Ambition: The Strategic Roadmap
Following a series of successful missions (Chandrayaan and NISAR), India’s space program is accelerating toward human spaceflight milestones.
The lunar mission marks not just a technological feat but the beginning of a new era for India’s presence in space research, industry, and international partnerships.
ISRO is tasked to triple the number of satellites in orbit within three years and steadily build launch vehicle infrastructure for ambitious long-term objectives.
Linking Lunar Landing to Viksit Bharat
Singh emphasized that the moon landing will signal the achievement of economic, scientific, and industrial benchmarks required for Viksit Bharat.
The event is seen as a symbol of Indian innovation, excellence in research and manufacturing, and the country’s commitment to global competitiveness.
Benefits for Science, Industry, and Inspiration
Technology: Mastery of crewed lunar missions will drive advancements across propulsion, robotics, communications, materials, and life sciences—spurring spin-offs for civilian use.
Industry: India’s space economy, presently at $8 billion, is projected to reach $45 billion by 2035 and more than $40 billion by 2040—driven by public-private partnerships, space startups, and international collaboration.
Inspiration: The moon landing will inspire future generations and catalyze interest in STEM careers, space entrepreneurship, and scientific innovation.
Preparatory Steps: Missions and Infrastructure
Uncrewed test flight with Vyommitra robot in 2026 to validate key systems for human spaceflight.
Gaganyaan human spaceflight in 2027 will place Indian astronauts in orbit, setting the stage for deep space missions.
Bharat Antariksh Station in 2035: India’s first modular space station, enabling autonomy in space research and technology demonstration.
Lunar crewed landing in 2040 will build on experiences from previous missions and international cooperation.
Challenges and India’s Competitive Position
Singh stressed that scientific talent, recent policy reforms (including opening the space sector to private firms in 2020), and world-leading cost-effective launches are accelerating India’s journey.
The minister underscored the need for continuous policy support, indigenous talent development, and advanced infrastructure investment.
Conclusion
The planned Indian lunar landing in 2040, announced by Jitendra Singh, is set to mark the beginning of Viksit Bharat—leveraging space exploration for technological, economic, and inspirational gains. India’s roadmap includes key milestones in robotics, human spaceflight, and modular space station development, all culminating in the historic moment an Indian sets foot on the moon and announces a new era for the nation.
Source: The Economic Times, August 18, 2025
