The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a significant expansion of India’s space program with the establishment of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) and revisions to the Gaganyaan human spaceflight program. This decision marks a major milestone in India’s space exploration efforts, with the first module of BAS scheduled for launch in 2028.

The approved plan includes the development of the first unit of the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS-1) and associated missions to validate and demonstrate the technologies required for its construction and operation. The scope of the Gaganyaan Program has been revised to integrate these new developments, including additional uncrewed missions and hardware upgrades essential for ongoing Gaganyaan missions.

The Gaganyaan Program, originally approved in December 2018, aims to advance India’s human spaceflight capabilities and lay the groundwork for future space exploration. The updated program now includes eight missions by December 2028, focusing on technology development and demonstration for long-duration human space missions. The new objectives align with the vision to establish BAS by 2035 and conduct an Indian crewed lunar mission by 2040.

The Bharatiya Antariksh Station will serve as a national space-based facility to enhance microgravity research and technology development. This initiative is expected to foster technological innovation, boost industrial participation, and create employment opportunities in high-tech sectors.

With an additional funding of ₹11,170 crore, the total budget for the revised Gaganyaan Program has increased to ₹20,193 crore. This substantial investment reflects India’s commitment to advancing its space capabilities and promoting careers in science and technology.

The Gaganyaan Program will be a collaborative effort led by ISRO, in partnership with industry, academia, and other national agencies. The program aims to develop critical technologies for human space missions and facilitate India’s emergence as a leading spacefaring nation.