Meeting of Space Strategic Group Held at MERI

New Delhi: A meeting of the Space Strategic Group was organized at MERI. The meeting focused on important aspects related to space and the growing space industry. Leading space experts shared their knowledge and experiences during different sessions. They discussed new developments, future challenges, and opportunities in the space sector. The active participation of space experts and professionals made the meeting informative and meaningful.

During the meeting, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MERI Group of Institutions and the Space Industry Association of India (SIA India) was exchanged. The MoU aims to strengthen cooperation in space education, research, and industry engagement. Vice President of MERI Group of Institutions, Prof. Lalit Aggarwal, and D.G. of SIA, Mr. Anil Prakash, formally exchanged the signed MoU.

On this occasion, Prof. Lalit Aggarwal welcomed all the guests and experts. He said that MERI Group of Institutions will work closely with the Space Industry Association (SIA) in the field of space research and innovation. Prof. Aggarwal said that we have come together to ensure that India remains a key leader in shaping the future of the space sector. He emphasized that such partnerships will help students gain practical exposure and prepare them for future challenges in the space domain.

The meeting was conducted in several sessions, where experts shared their views on different aspects of space. Senior Advisor of SIA, Lt. Gen. P. J. S. Pannu, spoke on IndSpaceX 4.0. He said that the space sector faces many challenges and that there is a strong need to create an environment that attracts more youth to the space industry. Lt. Gen. Pannu said that we need more research and innovation in space sector. He said that MERI Group of Institutions can serve as an effective platform for space research and capacity building.

Ms. Ranjana Kaul shared her views from a military and strategic perspective. She focused mainly on space-related regulations. During her talk, she referred to historical examples such as Hiroshima and Nagasaki, as well as the launch of Sputnik. She emphasized that while space has military relevance, it should primarily be used for peaceful purposes under international regulations.

Maj. Gen. Manjit S. Mokha spoke on ‘Welfare- Shifting Contours’. He highlighted the important role played by the Defence Cyber Agency, Defence Space Agency, and Defence Intelligence Agency. He also discussed key reforms and initiatives related to Multi-Domain Operations (MDO). Brig. Arun Sahgal spoke about ‘War Game Planning’ and highlighted the benefits of simulation as a tool. He explained how simulation helps in strategic planning, decision-making, and understanding future challenges, including aspects related to the space doctrine. Ambassador Mr. R. Sood discussed the International Ramifications- Space Wars.

Many space experts actively participated in the ‘Open Ideation’ session, which was moderated by Lt. Gen. P. J. S. Pannu. The meeting was anchored by Mr. Kush Aggarwal. Advisor Dr. Rakesh Khurana, Dean Dr. Deepshikha Kalra, CIS Head Dr. Ramakant Dwivedi, Head of MERI Space Department Mr. Amit V. Hans, along with MERI faculty and staff, were also present at the meeting.