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🇮🇳 Indian Astronaut Returns to Space After 41 Years: Shubhanshu Shukla Aboard Axiom-4 Mission to ISS

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In a landmark moment for India's space ambitions, Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has blasted off to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission , marking the country's return to human spaceflight after a 41-year hiatus . This historic launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida has not only reignited national pride but also officially kickstarted India’s human spaceflight programme . The mission, operated by Axiom Space , includes a four-member international crew that will spend 14 days in orbit , conducting scientific research, outreach programs, and various commercial activities. This momentous occasion places India among a select group of nations capable of sending humans into space and reflects the growing prowess of the Indian space sector . A New Chapter: Shubhanshu Shukla and India’s Astronautical Comeback The last Indian to go to space was Rakesh Sharma in 1984, aboard the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11. Now, in 2025, Shubhanshu...

Accelerating Smart Power & Renewable Energy in India (ASPIRE) Programme

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Accelerating Smart Power & Renewable Energy in India (ASPIRE) Programme

 

Introduction

The ASPIRE programme is a bilateral initiative between India and the UK, designed to promote clean energy transition, energy efficiency, and sustainable development. The second phase of ASPIRE was launched as part of the Fourth India-UK Energy Dialogue.

Key Features of ASPIRE Programme

1. Bilateral Collaboration

  • A joint initiative between India and the UK to support India's clean energy transition.
  • Implemented in partnership with India’s Ministry of Power (MoP) and Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE).

2. Objectives of the Programme

  • Strengthen India’s energy sector by integrating smart power solutions.
  • Enhance the use of renewable energy resources for a sustainable future.
  • Improve energy efficiency and industrial decarbonization.

Focus Areas of the Second Phase

1. Round-the-Clock Power Supply

  • Providing technical support to ensure an uninterrupted electricity supply.
  • Enhancing grid reliability and minimizing power outages.

2. Renewable Energy Expansion

  • Strengthening India’s clean energy initiatives by integrating more solar, wind, and hydro energy.
  • Encouraging investment in energy storage technologies to manage fluctuating renewable power generation.

3. Industrial Efficiency & Decarbonization

  • Promoting energy-efficient practices across industries.
  • Reducing carbon emissions to support India's net-zero goals.

Significance of the ASPIRE Programme

  • Supports India's Energy Transition: Helps India shift towards sustainable and clean energy sources.
  • Boosts Economic Growth: Provides a framework for energy security and promotes job creation in the renewable energy sector.
  • Reduces Dependence on Fossil Fuels: Encourages the use of renewable energy to lower carbon emissions and reduce reliance on coal and oil.

Conclusion

The ASPIRE programme is a crucial initiative in India's clean energy journey, fostering innovation, sustainability, and efficiency. Its second phase aims to expand renewable energy, ensure uninterrupted power supply, and promote industrial decarbonization, making it a key driver for India's sustainable future.


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