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...
The Indian government has taken a decisive step by deferring the implementation of satellite-based tolling, opting instead for a barrier-free toll collection system. This move comes amid growing concerns over privacy and data security associated with satellite-based tracking systems. The decision has sparked widespread debate as the government prioritizes safeguarding citizens’ privacy while maintaining efficient toll collection on national highways. The Concept of Satellite-Based Tolling Satellite-based tolling leverages GPS and satellite communication to automatically deduct toll fees from registered vehicles. This technology, widely adopted in several countries, eliminates the need for physical toll booths, thereby reducing congestion and improving traffic flow. However, it also raises significant privacy concerns due to continuous location tracking of vehicles. Why Did India Defer Satellite-Based Tolling? India’s decision to defer satellite-based tolling stems from apprehensions ab...