India underscored its growing stature as a global space power during the Global Space Exploration Conference (GLEX 2025), held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, and Minister of State for the Prime Minister’s Office, Atomic Energy, Space, Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh, addressed the prestigious international gathering.
With the theme “Reaching New Worlds: A Space Exploration Renaissance,” the high-profile summit drew participation from over 35 countries and international agencies, including space leaders, astronauts, and scientists. The event further cemented India’s role as a key player in global space diplomacy and innovation.
Jointly organized by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and the Astronautical Society of India (ASI), the three-day conference features over 240 presentations across 10 parallel technical sessions, covering 15 critical themes in space exploration. Dr. Jitendra Singh also inaugurated an extensive space exhibition with 22 stalls representing Indian space startups, international space agencies, and ISRO’s latest advancements.
During his keynote address, Dr. Singh highlighted India’s transformation from a space follower to a space enabler. “India is now an equal partner with leading space-faring nations, showcasing our scientific strength, visionary leadership, and commitment to peaceful space cooperation,” he said. He noted that India’s journey from modest beginnings has now become a beacon of inspiration for developing nations.
Describing GLEX 2025 as a platform to promote both “A for Bharat” and “B for the World,” the Minister emphasized India’s dual mission: leveraging space technology for national development and positioning itself as a trusted global collaborator. “We are not here to act as a Big Brother,” he said, “but as equal brothers working together for the collective benefit of our planet.”
Dr. Singh also spotlighted the government's efforts to liberalize the space sector, encouraging private participation and fostering public-private partnerships. He revealed that over 190 space startups have emerged in the past two years, helping drive India’s ambitions in deep space exploration, satellite launches, and commercial space ventures.
The global nature of the summit was evident with the presence of international dignitaries including Josef Aschbacher (European Space Agency), Kazuyoshi Kawasaki (Japan), Jill Smyth (USA), Wu Weiren (China), and Salem Al Marri (UAE). ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan reaffirmed the agency’s mission to advance interplanetary exploration and harness space technology for societal welfare.
In a bid to inspire the next generation, the conference launched an astronaut outreach programme featuring global astronauts such as Hazzaa AlMansoori (UAE), Alper Gezeravci (Trkiye), Michael L¢pez-Alegr¡a (USA/Spain), and India’s own Rakesh Sharma and Angad Pratap. These space pioneers engaged with students and young professionals, igniting passion for space science.
As India gears up for its Gaganyaan human spaceflight and upcoming lunar and planetary missions, GLEX 2025 stands as a landmark moment — positioning the country as a key hub for international collaboration and a source of inspiration for future generations. The summit signals not only India’s progress in space but also a broader global commitment to peaceful, inclusive, and cooperative space exploration.