Convergence of space, AI, quantum tech will define 21st century geopolitical power: Minister

The convergence of space technology, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, robotics, semiconductors and high-performance computing will determine which nations command geopolitical power in the 21st century, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said Sunday.

Speaking at the 3rd National Space Day in Ahmedabad, the Union Culture and Tourism Minister told an audience at the Space Applications Centre that technological leadership in these fields will translate directly into economic dominance and global influence.

Convergence, not isolation, will define power

"Just as science is ultimately integrating in the form of a pyramid, in the coming years, all these technological streams will no longer remain separate. Their convergence will determine the direction of human life, the global economy and geopolitical positioning," Mr. Shekhawat said. He added that the nation possessing this convergence "will have not only technological leadership in the 21st century, but also economic leadership and the capacity to inspire".

The Minister warned that global competition and geopolitical conflict will centre on disrupting technological capabilities, urging India to work with determination while keeping these challenges in mind.

Private sector is 'democratisation,' not dilution

Mr. Shekhawat addressed concerns that opening the space sector to private players might diminish ISRO's importance, calling such fears unfounded. When the government opened the sector and created IN-SPACe to enable and supervise private entities, "some people had doubts" about commercialisation reducing ISRO's role, he said.

"Privatisation of space is the 'democratisation of space opportunities,'" Mr. Shekhawat asserted, arguing that private participation meant "multiplying the capacities, opportunities and strength of an institution like ISRO" rather than reducing its role.

He said India has shifted from an organisation-centric model to an ecosystem-centric one, with private industry, startups, academia and investors now working together.

Debris, cyber threats and AI ethics loom

The Minister flagged future challenges including space debris, cybersecurity, data security and the responsible use of artificial intelligence.

ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan, who attended the Department of Science-organised event alongside Gujarat Science and Technology Minister Arjun Modhwadia and IN-SPACe Chairman Dr. Pawan Kumar Goenka, recalled that August 23, 2023 marked Chandrayaan-3's historic soft landing near the moon's south pole. He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for designating the date as National Space Day.

Mr. Narayanan noted that space-sector reforms in 2020 spurred a surge in startups, with around 440 now operating in the sector. He outlined targets including the Gaganyaan mission, Chandrayaan-4 and Chandrayaan-5, missions to Mars and Venus, a plan to launch over 300 satellites in six to seven years with startup participation, and establishing an Indian Space Station by 2035.

Source: The Hindu