Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday lauded the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for a landmark achievement, following the successful launch of its heavy-lift rocket LVM3-M6. The mission flawlessly placed the US communications satellite BlueBird Block-2 into its intended orbit, setting a new record for the heaviest payload ever launched from Indian soil.
A Proud Milestone for India's Space Ambitions
In a post on social media platform X, the Prime Minister celebrated the feat as a "proud milestone" in the nation's space journey. He emphasized that this accomplishment underscores India's rapidly advancing capabilities in the space domain and aligns with the vision of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). "India continues to soar higher in the world of space!" PM Modi declared.
He specifically congratulated the scientists and engineers at ISRO for their hard work. The Prime Minister noted that the mission strengthens India's heavy-lift launch capacity and solidifies its growing position in the competitive global commercial launch market.
Technical Triumph and Future Foundations
The early-morning launch from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota saw the 43.5-metre-tall, 640-tonne LVM3 rocket lift off with the 6,100 kg BlueBird Block-2 satellite. Approximately 16 minutes after liftoff, the satellite was injected into a circular orbit about 520 km above Earth.
ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan highlighted the significance of the mission, stating it was the heaviest satellite ever launched by an Indian rocket from Indian territory. He also revealed that this was the first back-to-back launch for the LVM3 vehicle within just 52 days. With this success, ISRO has now deployed a total of 434 satellites for 34 different countries.
Empowering Youth and Paving the Way Forward
In a separate message, PM Modi pointed to the vital role of the country's young scientific talent. "Powered by India’s youth, our space programme is getting more advanced and impactful," he said.
He connected this successful commercial mission to India's future exploratory goals. The reliable performance of LVM3, he explained, is strengthening the foundation for upcoming ambitious projects like the Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme. It also paves the way for expanding commercial launch services and deepening international partnerships in space.
"This increased capability and boost to self-reliance are wonderful for the coming generations," the Prime Minister added, framing the achievement as a gift to the nation's future.
