Welcome to GKboard.in, your trusted source for current affairs updates tailored for competitive exams. Today, we dive into India’s prominent role at the Global Space Exploration Conference (GLEX 2025) held at Bharat Mandapam, showcasing its rise as a global space power. This topic is crucial for aspirants preparing for exams like UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other government recruitment tests.
Overview of GLEX 2025
A Global Space Summit
The GLEX 2025, themed “Reaching New Worlds: A Space Exploration Renaissance”, brought together space leaders, astronauts, and scientists from over 35 countries at Bharat Mandapam. Organized by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), and Astronautical Society of India (ASI), the three-day summit featured 240 interactive presentations across 15 thematic areas, reinforcing India’s leadership in space diplomacy and innovation.
India’s Space Achievements
From Follower to Global Enabler
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted India’s transformation into a global space enabler. He noted that India now collaborates as an equal partner with leading space-faring nations, driven by its scientific capability and visionary leadership. From humble beginnings, India’s space journey has become an inspiration for developing countries, with achievements like the Gaganyaan mission and lunar explorations.
Key Highlights of GLEX 2025
Showcasing Innovation
Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated a space exhibition featuring 22 stalls showcasing Indian space startups, international space agencies, and ISRO’s latest achievements. The summit hosted 10 parallel technical sessions, fostering discussions on deep space missions, satellite technology, and commercial space applications, positioning India as a hub for space innovation.
India’s Vision at GLEX 2025
A for Bharat, B for the World
Dr. Jitendra Singh described GLEX 2025 as a platform advancing India’s dual vision: “A for Bharat”—serving its people through space applications, and “B for the World”—embodying Vishwa Bandhu Bharat as a trusted global partner. He emphasized India’s commitment to peaceful space cooperation and collaboration rather than dominance.
Boosting Private Space Sector
Encouraging Startups
The Government of India has democratized the space sector, fostering public-private partnerships. Dr. Jitendra Singh noted that over 190 space startups have emerged in the last two years, driving innovation in deep space missions, satellite launches, and commercial applications. This ecosystem supports India’s ambitious space goals.
Global Participation
International Collaboration
GLEX 2025 saw participation from global dignitaries like Josef Aschbacher (European Space Agency), Kazuyoshi Kawasaki (Japan), Jill Smyth (USA), Wu Weiren (China), and Salem Al Marri (UAE). ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan emphasized advancing interplanetary exploration and making space technology accessible for societal benefit.
Astronaut Outreach Programme
Inspiring Young Minds
An astronaut outreach programme featured nearly ten astronauts, including Hazzaa AlMansoori (UAE), Alper Gezeravci (Türkiye), Michael López-Alegría (USA/Spain), and Indian astronauts Rakesh Sharma and Angad Pratap. They engaged with students and young professionals, igniting interest in space science.
Why This Matters for Competitive Exams
Key Takeaways for Students
India’s role in GLEX 2025 is a significant topic for competitive exam aspirants, as questions on space exploration, ISRO, and international cooperation frequently appear in exams like UPSC, SSC, and Banking. Focus on India’s space startups, Gaganyaan mission, and global space collaboration to excel in your preparation.
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Posted on: May 9, 2025