India’s space programmes are delivering notable economic returns, according to former ISRO Chairman S Somnath. Speaking at the Oxford India Business Forum, he stated that for every rupee spent by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), it yields a return of Rs 2.54 in value. Somnath highlighted the remarkable efficiency and global impact of India’s space sector, despite operating with comparatively modest budgets.
“ISRO generates Rs 2.54 in revenue for every rupee it spends. This is a clear example of how effectively the allocated funds are being utilised. We have built extensive infrastructure, launched numerous satellites, and completed several successful missions,” he explained.
Somnath pointed to major ISRO achievements such as Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya-L1 as evidence of India’s growing stature in space research. He also emphasised the rapid emergence of the private space sector in India. While there was only one space startup in India before 2014, today more than 250 companies are actively developing rockets, preparing for missions, and building satellites. This vibrant ecosystem, he noted, will help India expand its share in the global space economy.
Outlining ISRO’s long-term vision, Somnath spoke of an ambitious 25-year roadmap. India plans to send an astronaut to the moon and bring them back. The roadmap includes the development of reusable rockets, the establishment of an Indian space station, sustaining long-duration human presence in space, and undertaking advanced exploration missions to the Moon and Mars.
He added that ISRO’s initiatives aim to benefit the global scientific community. The organisation is seeking international partners for microgravity research and is working to promote space collaborations with countries such as Nepal, Bhutan, Oman, South Africa, and members of the ASEAN bloc. India will support these nations in developing their space capabilities.
“ISRO’s vision is to make India a global leader in space science and technology,” Somnath concluded.
