NEW DELHI: India affirmed its growing prominence as a leading "Space Power" in the global arena as Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology; Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Dr. Jitendra Singh addressed the "Global Space Exploration Conference" (GLEX 2025) at Yashobhoomi, here.

The high-profile summit, themed "Reaching New Worlds: A Space Exploration Renaissance," brought together space leaders, astronauts, and scientists from across the globe, with participation of more than 35 countries and international agencies, reinforcing India's role at the forefront of space diplomacy and innovation.

Organised jointly by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF), the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and the Astronautical Society of India (ASI), the three-day summit is hosting over 240 interactive presentations across 10 parallel technical sessions, spanning 15 critical thematic areas. The event also witnessed the inauguration of a dynamic space exhibition by Dr. Jitendra Singh, featuring 22 stalls showcasing the work of Indian space startups, international space agencies, and ISRO's latest achievements.

Speaking at the special session, Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored India's transition from being a follower in space exploration to becoming a global enabler. "India is now collaborating as an equal partner with some of the leading space-faring nations. This is a testimony to our scientific capability, visionary leadership, and commitment to peaceful space cooperation," he said. He added that India's space journey, which began with humble beginnings, has evolved into a source of inspiration for developing countries.

Dr. Jitendra Singh described GLEX 2025 as a platform that advances India's vision on two fronts - "A for Bharat" and "B for the World." Elaborating on this, he said the conference embodies India's aspiration to serve its own people through space applications while also embracing the spirit of Vishwa Bandhu Bharat - a trusted global partner committed to collaboration, not domination. "We are not here to act as a Big Brother," he emphasized, "but as equal brothers, working together with the rest of humanity for the shared benefit of our planet."

The Minister highlighted the Government's initiatives to democratize the space sector, encouraging private enterprise and public-private partnerships. "The opening up of India's space sector has already triggered a boom in innovation, with over 190 startups emerging in the last two years alone," he noted, adding that this ecosystem was vital to fuelling India's ambitions in deep space missions, satellite launches, and commercial space applications.

Among the international dignitaries present were Josef Aschbacher (European Space Agency), Kazuyoshi Kawasaki (Japan), Jill Smyth (USA), Wu Weiren (China), and Salem Al Marri (UAE), reflecting the truly global character of the event. ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan reiterated the organisation's vision to advance interplanetary exploration and to make space technology accessible for societal benefit.

In a significant move to build public enthusiasm, the conference also launched an astronaut outreach programme featuring around ten astronauts from around the world. The lineup included HazzaaAlMansoori (UAE), Alper Gezeravci (Türkiye), Michael López-Alegría (USA/Spain), and Indian astronauts Rakesh Sharma and Angad Pratap, who engaged with students and young professionals to ignite interest in space science.

As India prepares for its Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission and future lunar and planetary explorations, GLEX 2025 positions the country as both a hub for international space collaboration and a beacon of aspiration for young minds. The summit not only marks a milestone in India's space narrative but also signals a broader global commitment to peaceful and inclusive space exploration.