Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Saturday congratulated the team behind India’s first privately developed orbital rocket, Vikram‑1, describing its successful flight as a proud moment showcasing the power of patience, precision and collaborative innovation.
In a post on X, LoP Rahul Gandhi extended his best wishes to the young scientists and engineers at Skyroot Aerospace while acknowledging the crucial support extended by ISRO and IN‑SPACe.
He said the successful flight of Vikram‑1 was a tribute to years of patience, precision and quiet work by scientists, engineers and technicians.
He specifically praised the “remarkable young team at Skyroot Aerospace” and all those at ISRO and IN‑SPACe who backed the mission.
LoP Rahul Gandhi emphasised the importance of synergy between public institutions and private enterprise, stating that India is strongest when both work together in the service of science and society.
He added that India is strongest when public institutions and private enterprise build upon each other’s capabilities in the service of science and society, and when youth are given the opportunity and trust to turn ambitious ideas into reality.
The statement comes days after Skyroot Aerospace achieved a historic milestone with the successful launch of Vikram‑1, marking a significant step forward in India’s private space sector.
The rocket’s development and launch represent the growing confidence of Indian start‑ups in cutting‑edge aerospace technology and the government’s push to encourage private participation in the space economy through initiatives like IN‑SPACe.
LoP Rahul Gandhi’s message highlights a broader vision of inclusive scientific progress, where talent and innovation from the youth are nurtured through collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors.
His praise for the scientific community also underscores the need for continued investment in research, skill development, and entrepreneurship in emerging fields such as space technology.
The successful flight of Vikram‑1 is being widely celebrated across the country as a landmark achievement that strengthens India’s position in the global space race while inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers.
--IANS
