PM Modi congratulates scientists for launch of PSLV C23

Prime Minster Narendra Modi on Monday congratulated space scientists and department of space for a successful launch of PSLV C23 and said that he felt privileged to witness this launch in person.

"My congratulations to space scientists and department of space for another successful launch. This fills every Indian's heart with pride. I feel privileged to witness this launch in person," said Modi.

"This is definitely a global endorsement of India's space capability. India has a rich heritage of science and technology, its relation with life and science is deeply rooted with knowledge," he said.

He further said that he felt technology was fundamentally connected with the common man.

"I feel technology is fundamentally connected with the common man, it opens up new ways of opportunity. Space technology is improving our land management systems, Satellite communication often ends up being the only mode of communication," Modi said.

"We must share the fruits of our technology and advancement with those who do not enjoy the same," he added.

The Indian Space Research Organisation's (ISRO's) PSLV C23 lifted off from Sriharikota earlier this morning in the presence of Modi.

The 230-ton Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) lifted off at 9:52 am, carrying five satellites from four countries namely France, Germany, Canada and Singapore.

The satellites launched in space include French Earth observation satellite SPOT 7.

Modi watched the launch with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Union Urban Development Minister Venkaiah Naidu.