Question : Militarization of Space

(a) whether there is an increased threat perception from weaponisation or militarization of outer space around the world and if so, the details thereof;
(b) whether it is particularly of great concern with the development of anti satellite technologies that are being developed by a neighbouring nation of India and if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether India has a space command to co-ordinate between different actors in dealing with any contingencies;
(d) if so, whether it is sufficiently funded and staffed and if so, the details thereof; and
(e) whether India has a dedicated space programme and 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) There is a general threat perception from weaponisation or militarization of outer space for the whole world. It could have an impact on the security of space infrastructure.

(b) Development of Anti-satellite technology could pose two dimensional impact, first, the possibility of impacting satellites and second, creation of debris, which is a perennial problem to all operational space systems.

(c) Currently India does not have a Space Command.

(d) Does not arise.

(e) India has a dedicated space programme which addresses various developmental requirements of the country through Satcom, SatNav and Earth Observation related assets.

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