IRNSS-1G launch 'gift to people from scientists': PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated the Indian Space Research organisation (ISRO) for the successful launch of satellite IRNSS-1G in the orbit, saying this would help the nation to determine its own path with indigenous technology.

Speaking to scientists at the ISRO's control room in Sriharikota via a video conference, the Prime Minister described the launch as 'a great gift to people from scientists', while asserting that space science has the power to transform lives of the people.

"India has launched seven such navigation satellites which have been successful. First and foremost, I want to congratulate all ISRO scientists and the entire team. I also congratulate the people of India," Prime Minister Modi said.

"With this successful launch, we will determine our own paths powered by our technology. This is a great gift to people from scientists...In space science, our scientists have achieved many accomplishments. Through space science lives of people can be transformed," he added.

Dedicating the launch to 'Indian sailors and fishermen', the Prime Minister said that this would be of immense help to them.

"Dedicating this to Indian sailors and fishermen' courage of exploring the unexplored, it will be known as 'NAVIC'...Indian sailors used to determine their paths observing position of stars & speed of moon and sun," he said.

"This is a precious gift given by Indian scientists to the people of nation," he added.

ISRO today launched PSLV-C33 to place India's seventh and final navigation satellite IRNSS-1G in the orbit from Andhra Pradesh's Sriharikota island.

The launch of the four-stage Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) took place at 12:50 p.m. from Satish Dhawan Space Centre here.

The 54-hour countdown for the launch of ISRO work horse, PSLV, began at 9.20 a.m. on Tuesday. The satellite with a design life span of 12 years has two payloads for navigation and ranging.

Till date, ISRO has launched six regional navigational satellites (IRNSS-1A, 1B, 1C, ID, 1E and 1F) as part of a constellation of seven satellites to provide accurate position information service to users across the country and the region.