Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday interacted with CEOs and founders of Indian space startups, highlighting the growing role of private companies in strengthening the country’s space sector.

During the interaction, PM Modi praised entrepreneurs for entering a sector that traditionally had a strong government presence and said their participation reflected confidence in India’s emerging space ecosystem.

“You have shown courage in a new sector,” Modi said while addressing the founders and CEOs. He also highlighted India’s cost competitiveness, saying the country has an advantage in developing and delivering space-related technologies and services at comparatively lower costs.

The interaction comes as India seeks to expand private participation in space activities and build a stronger ecosystem of startups, researchers and established companies. The government has been encouraging private players to work across areas including satellite manufacturing, launch services, space-based applications and related technologies.

India’s space sector has seen increasing participation from startups in recent years, with several private companies developing rockets, satellites and other space technologies. The growing ecosystem is also expected to support the country’s ambitions in the global commercial space market.

PM Modi’s interaction with space entrepreneurs focused on the opportunities emerging in the sector and the role of innovation in taking India’s space capabilities to a larger global market. The government has repeatedly stressed the importance of private investment and entrepreneurship in expanding the space economy.

The Prime Minister also underlined the confidence of young entrepreneurs who are taking up challenges in advanced technology sectors. His remarks come at a time when India is positioning itself as a competitive destination for space-related manufacturing, technology development and commercial services.

The government has been working to create an environment where startups can contribute alongside organisations such as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Policy changes in recent years have opened more areas of the space sector to private participation.

India’s relatively lower launch and development costs have also been cited as one of its key advantages in the international space market. The country has already established a reputation for executing complex space missions at comparatively modest costs.

The Prime Minister’s interaction with startup founders is therefore significant as India looks to move beyond being primarily a government-led space programme and build a broader commercial space ecosystem involving private companies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the media ahead of the opening of the Monsoon Session of Parliament and highlighted India's growing innovation ecosystem, the achievements of young entrepreneurs, and the country's rapid progress in science and technology. During his remarks, the Prime Minister also made a light-hearted political comment that drew smiles from leaders standing alongside him, becoming one of the talking points of the day.

While speaking about India's expanding space sector, PM Modi referred to the successful achievements of private aerospace startup Skyroot Aerospace. He praised the company's contribution to India's space ambitions and emphasized how young innovators are helping the nation achieve global recognition in advanced technology.

The Prime Minister said that India's youth are creating history through innovation, entrepreneurship, and scientific excellence. Referring to the team behind Skyroot Aerospace, he noted that the average age of its members is around 28 years, calling it an inspiring example of India's emerging talent pool.

During this part of his address, PM Modi humorously remarked that he was speaking about a team of 28-year-old youngsters and "not about a 56-year-old youth." The comment immediately drew laughter from Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, who was standing behind the Prime Minister during the media briefing. Although no individual was named, the remark attracted considerable political attention as observers linked it to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

The exchange quickly became a major discussion point as political circles recalled the long-running verbal exchanges between Prime Minister Modi and Rahul Gandhi over the years. The latest remark was widely viewed as another chapter in the political rivalry that has frequently featured sharp yet indirect comments from both sides.

Prime Minister Modi's primary focus during the briefing, however, remained on India's achievements and the importance of maintaining a productive Parliament. He urged all Members of Parliament to participate in meaningful debates supported by facts and constructive discussions. According to the Prime Minister, Parliament functions best when every representative contributes positively toward nation-building and public welfare.

Highlighting India's technological progress, PM Modi referred to the country's growing private space industry. Over the past few years, India has opened its space sector to private participation, allowing startups and technology companies to contribute alongside national institutions. This policy shift has encouraged innovation, investment, and research in satellite technology, launch vehicles, and aerospace engineering.

Skyroot Aerospace has emerged as one of the prominent examples of India's new-generation space startups. The Prime Minister praised such companies for demonstrating that Indian talent is capable of competing globally in cutting-edge sectors. He noted that the achievements of young entrepreneurs inspire confidence in India's future and strengthen the country's position in the global innovation landscape.

PM Modi also underlined that India's youth are playing an increasingly important role across multiple sectors, including digital technology, artificial intelligence, manufacturing, renewable energy, and scientific research. He said that the government's continued emphasis on innovation, startup development, and skill enhancement is creating opportunities for talented young professionals throughout the country.

The media interaction took place shortly before Parliament began its Monsoon Session, which is expected to feature discussions on several important legislative proposals and national issues. The Prime Minister expressed hope that the session would remain productive and focused on meaningful policymaking rather than prolonged disruptions.

Political observers noted that while the humorous comment attracted media attention, the broader message of the Prime Minister's address centered on India's economic growth, technological advancement, and youth-driven development. Government leaders have consistently highlighted innovation and entrepreneurship as key pillars of India's long-term growth strategy.

The government's support for startups has led to rapid growth in India's entrepreneurial ecosystem over the past decade. Several Indian startups have gained international recognition across sectors including fintech, healthcare, education, clean energy, and space technology. The Prime Minister said such achievements reflect the confidence, creativity, and determination of India's younger generation.

As Parliament proceeds with the Monsoon Session, both the government and opposition are expected to engage in discussions on legislative business and national priorities. The government has reiterated its commitment to development-oriented governance, institutional reforms, and policies aimed at strengthening India's economy and global competitiveness.

The Prime Minister concluded his interaction by expressing confidence that India's youth would continue driving innovation and shaping the country's future. He encouraged young entrepreneurs, researchers, scientists, and professionals to keep pursuing excellence and contribute to India's journey toward becoming a leading global economic and technological power.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held wide-ranging talks with French President Emmanuel Macron in the French Riviera city of Nice on Saturday, as the two leaders sought to deepen the strategic partnership between India and France across technology, defence, and innovation. The meeting came on the first day of Modi’s six-day tour of France and Slovakia.

The leaders warmly embraced before jointly inaugurating the Bharat Innovates programme, a new global platform designed to connect Indian startups with international investors and experts.

Shared Vision Beyond Diplomacy

Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Modi described the India-France relationship as one driven by “shared vision and common thinking.” He emphasised that the partnership extends far beyond trade and defence cooperation, being rooted in trust, democratic values, and a forward-looking approach to global challenges.

President Macron, in turn, hailed India as “a country of innovation” and a key partner in the Make in India initiative. He highlighted ongoing collaboration in defence, technology, artificial intelligence, and climate change, while expressing optimism about expanding ties in civilian nuclear energy, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).

Spotlight on Startups and Youth

The Bharat Innovates event, running from June 14 to 16 at Palais des Expositions in Nice, brings together over 100 Indian startups with global venture capital funds. Modi noted that India is now home to more than 200,000 startups, many of which are addressing real-world problems in areas such as AI, quantum computing, biotechnology, and space technology.

The Prime Minister said young Indian entrepreneurs are no longer just consumers of technology but are emerging as solution providers for the world. The initiative aims to give Indian talent greater access to European and global investment networks.

Strong Defence and Strategic Ties

France has emerged as India’s second-largest defence supplier after Russia. Over the years, New Delhi has procured Mirage 2000 fighters, Rafale jets, and Scorpene submarines from Paris. French support remained steady even after India’s 1998 Pokhran nuclear tests when several Western nations imposed sanctions.

Macron has consistently backed India on global forums, including pushing for its permanent membership in the UN Security Council and entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group.

G7 Summit and Bilateral Engagements

Modi’s French visit includes participation in the G7 Summit in Evian from June 16-17, where he is expected to hold a bilateral meeting with US President Donald Trump — their first in 16 months. The summit agenda is likely to cover the Ukraine conflict, Middle East tensions including the Strait of Hormuz, and artificial intelligence.

Sources indicated that discussions on a possible multilateral security arrangement for the Strait of Hormuz could see progress, with India favouring a UN-aligned framework involving partners like France and Britain.

On June 14 evening, the Prime Minister will travel to Slovakia for meetings with Prime Minister Robert Fico and President Peter Pellegrini — the first visit by an Indian PM to the country since its independence in 1993.

Cultural Connect and People-to-People Ties

A cultural programme marked the visit in Nice, where members of the Indian community greeted the Prime Minister warmly. Women from the diaspora also had the opportunity to interact with him. Modi is scheduled to visit Evian and Paris later in the tour, culminating with the VivaTech conference alongside Macron.

This marks Modi’s seventh visit to France as Prime Minister, underscoring the consistent priority both nations attach to the relationship.

Looking Ahead

As geopolitical uncertainties rise, the India-France partnership is seen as a pillar of stability. Cooperation in emerging technologies and clean energy is expected to gain further momentum in the coming months, with both sides committed to translating shared goals into tangible outcomes for their citizens and the wider world.

Saturn’s Reverse Shadow Pauses All Promotions

The 30th of April marks a critical day where Saturn appears stationary. HR decisions made today will be reversed within two weeks, warn astro-economists.

 India’s corporate sector is under an unusual astrological freeze. Saturn, the taskmaster, is in retrograde shadow, meaning any new job offer or promotion signed today will face delays or cancellations. Astrologers strongly advise human resources to wait until May 5th.

Job Seekers’ Horoscope

For those attending interviews, the Moon in the 6th house indicates tough questioning. However, the answer sheet is favourable. You will get the offer, but the joining date will be pushed by three weeks. Do not resign from your current job until you have the physical offer letter. Verbal promises break today.

Business Owners and Entrepreneurs

This is a poor day for launching a new product or signing a partnership deed. A specific warning for tech startups in Bangalore: a legal issue regarding intellectual property will surface. Double-check your NDAs. Retail business in North India will see high footfall but low profit margins.

Government Job Aspirants

For those seeking sarkari naukri, today’s transit of Jupiter into the 11th house is highly beneficial. Exam results released today will show unexpected grace marks. A candidate from a rural area in Uttar Pradesh has a high chance of clearing a major banking exam.

Remedies for Career Growth

Keep a raw egg (brown shell) outside your office door until 12 PM. Discard it in a dustbin, not in open ground. This simple Vedic remedy removes obstacles from the "Dasha" period of Saturn. Also, avoid wearing black shoes today.

What to Do Instead

Use 30th April for planning, not executing. Update your resume, clean your desk, and call old mentors. A short conversation with a previous boss will lead to a future reference. Action is stalled, but strategy is blessed.