(a) whether India has been offered the opportunity by the US to conduct research in the International Space Station;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether both the countries propose to explore the possibility of utilization of space assets for maritime domain awareness which would be a new dimension for India as it puts in place the elements of a blue water navy; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PG & PENSIONS AND IN THE PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE
(DR. JITENDRA SINGH):
(a) Yes Madam.
(b) A few space agencies, who are partners of International Space Station (ISS) including National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) of USA have informally invited Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to utilise ISS for studying Earth’s environment and climate.
(c) No Madam.
(d) Does not arise.
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