Senior US Administration officials have revealed that NASA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) are collaborating on a strategic framework, Artemis Accords, for human spaceflight operations this year. This significant development is taking place during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inaugural State visit to the US.
In the realm of space exploration, the officials stated that India will join the Artemis Accords, a non-binding agreement among governments participating in the US-led mission to return humans to the Moon by 2025. The Artemis Accords aim to foster international cooperation in space exploration for the benefit of all humanity.
Additionally, the officials announced that Micron Technology will invest $800 million (approximately Rs. 6,600 crore) to establish semiconductor assembly and test facilities in India as part of the Indian National Semiconductor mission. This investment aligns with India’s aspiration to become a hub for electronic goods production.
Furthermore, a semiconductor manufacturing equipment company plans to introduce a training program for 60,000 Indian engineers, contributing to the development of expertise in the sector.
Collaboration between the US and India extends beyond space and semiconductor industries. The two countries are jointly working on advanced telecommunications, including 5G and open routing systems. They are set to announce partnerships for open field trials, rollouts, and scale deployments of telecommunications technologies in both the US and India.
These efforts will be supported by the US International Development Finance Corporation to facilitate cooperation and promote deployments in India.
As part of their growing bilateral relationship, the US intends to establish two new consulates in India, including one in Bengaluru. Similarly, India is planning to announce the establishment of new consulates in the United States. These diplomatic expansions reflect the deepening ties between the two nations.
