Launch of NVS-03: PM Modi congratulates scientists, engineers at ISRO

On October 31, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged the achievement of scientists and engineers at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) following the successful launch of GSLV-F18 carrying the navigation satellite NVS-03. He stated that the mission signifies a significant milestone in bolstering NavIC, India's homegrown satellite navigation system.

NVS-03, the next-generation satellite, was placed into orbit by the GSLV, a critical component as it could potentially restore the functionality of India's regional satellite navigation system, NavIC. Its development was motivated by the 1999 Kargil War, which led to restrictions on GPS data access from the United States.

Upon launch, Modi expressed his appreciation for the scientists and engineers at ISRO, emphasizing that NVS-03's enhanced capabilities will further India's self-reliance in crucial technologies and improve navigation services for the public. In a post on X, the Prime Minister congratulated India's space scientists, praising their dedication and ingenuity.

ISRO faced technical challenges during the launch; however, they managed by flying the NVS-03 satellite with pyro valves open. This decision comes in the wake of the failure of NVS-02, the second satellite in the NVS series, which was launched in 2025. NVS-03, a second-generation navigation satellite, boasts an indigenous and procured atomic clock and has diverse applications, including civilian use like tracking trains, vehicles, and shipping vessels.