Space co-operation agreement between India and Russia

India and Russia pursue joint programmes in a few areas of space research. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Russian Federal Space Agency (ROSCOSMOS) have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on expansion of cooperation in the field of the exploration and use of outer space for peaceful purposes. There is no transfer of space technology envisaged under this MoU.

This new MoU provides scope for developing joint activities in areas of mutual interest, including satellite navigation; launch vehicle development; critical technologies for human spaceflight programme; remote sensing of Earth; space science and planetary exploration; and use of ground space infrastructure. Specific cooperation proposals for further processing are also included in the MoU. Joint projects; sharing of expertise and resources; development of space systems and components; exchange of scientists; training and scientific and technical meetings are listed out as the forms of cooperation on the above areas. Further, provisions are included in the MoU to conclude separate agreements for specific areas of cooperation detailing objectives, procedures and financial aspects.

The MoU was signed by ISRO on May 25, 2015 and by ROSCOSMOS on June 22, 2015.

Expansion of space cooperation between India and Russia through this MoU is likely to benefit ISRO in further consolidation and augmentation of its space programme in various domains including space exploration.

This information was given by the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Development of North-Eastern Region (DoNER), MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh in reply to unstarred question in Rajya Sabha today.

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NK