Q. Discuss the significance of India’s acceptance of the Artemis Accords and its implications for the country’s space policy. (150 words, 10 Marks)

भारत के द्वारा आर्टेमिस समझौते को स्वीकार करने की महत्ता और इसके द्वारा देश की अंतरिक्ष नीति पर प्रभाव की चर्चा करें।

Answer:

 Approach:

Introduction: Write a brief overview of the Artemis Accords and India’s recent endorsement of them.

Body:

⮚ Discuss the significance of India’s acceptance of the Accords.

⮚ Talk about the implications of this decision for India’s space policy.

⮚ Identify and mention concerns associated with this development.

●  Conclusion: Conclude by summarising the overall implications of India’s decision to sign the Artemis Accords.

Introduction:

The Artemis Accords, led by NASA, sets a framework for international cooperation in the exploration of outer space, primarily concerning the Artemis Program, which aims to return humans to the moon. Recently, India has accepted these accords, marking a significant evolution in its space policy and engagement with global partners in space exploration. 

Body:

Significance of India’s Acceptance

  • Global Recognition and Visibility: By signing the Artemis Accords, India further bolsters its position in the global space community, showcasing its willingness to follow globally recognized space laws and norms, thus enhancing its international visibility.

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  • A shift in International Alliances: The acceptance reflects a shift in India’s space alliances, aligning more closely with the US-led alliance, which signifies India’s readiness for enhanced collaboration in space exploration.
  • Strengthening National Space Capabilities: Participation in the alliance allows India to enhance its national space capabilities, with potential benefits from technology sharing and collaboration with other nations, contributing to the growth of the domestic space industry.
  • Sustainable Space Exploration: The Accords emphasize peaceful and sustainable exploration of space. Accepting them aligns India with these principles, reinforcing its commitment to avoiding harmful interference and ensuring transparency in operations.

Implications for India’s Space Policy

  • Evolution of Space Policy: Aligning with the Artemis Accords will require evolution and adjustments in India’s space policy to mirror the principles set by the Accords, emphasizing transparency, interoperability, and sustainable use of space resources.
  • Access to Advanced Technologies: As a part of the US-led alliance, India stands to gain access to advanced space technologies and capabilities, supporting its missions related to moon landings, planetary explorations, and the establishment of a space station.
  • Strategic Diplomacy: The diplomatic landscape becomes more complex with India needing to maintain a careful balance between its new alliances and the traditional strong ties with Russia in the space sector.
  • Commercial Space Sector: The Accords promote commercial participation in space exploration. This could stimulate India’s burgeoning commercial space sector, encouraging private entities to engage in space-related activities.
  • Resource Utilization: The Accords allow for the use of space resources. This could influence India’s future missions, allowing it to plan for missions aimed at exploiting resources on the Moon, Mars, and asteroids.

27.3

Concerns Associated with This Development

  • Overreliance on External Technologies: While collaboration offers many benefits, an overreliance on external technologies could potentially restrict India’s ability to independently develop and sustain its own space technologies and capabilities.
  • Potential Loss of Autonomy: As India aligns with the US-led alliance, there could be concerns about a potential loss of autonomy and decision-making power in shaping its space program.
  • Impact on Existing Partnerships: The decision could strain India’s existing partnerships, particularly with Russia. It will be crucial for India to manage these relationships effectively.

Conclusion:

India’s endorsement of the Artemis Accords reflects its commitment to space exploration best practices and opens new pathways for collaboration. However, this move requires delicate navigation of diplomatic relationships and a careful balance of independence and collaboration. With a considered approach, India can leverage this opportunity to accelerate its space program and solidify its position as a significant player in global space exploration.

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UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध
Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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