Article Posted on : - Jul 22, 2016

A file photo.

NEW DELHI (PTI): India's membership of the MTCR would benefit the space programme by enabling exports of satellites and commercial launch services and the country could also have a say in the decision-making process in ensuring non-proliferation of critical space technology at the international fora, the government on Thursday said.

In a written response to a question in Rajya Sabha, Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for Prime Minister's Office that looks after the Department of Space (DoS), said, "This will strengthen international cooperation activities in high technology areas with other space-faring nations."

"It would also ease the procurement and supplies of export controlled high/advanced technology items, components, materials, and equipment from other countries, especially MTCR partner states. This would also enhance our commercial ventures in terms of export of sub-systems, satellites and commercial launch services," he said.

India as a major space-faring nation and as a partner state in Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), Singh said, could play critical roles in various international fora such as UN Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNCOPUS), UN Conference on Disarmament (CD).

He said becoming a member of the elite club could also help it play a critical role at international fora in decisions relating to space applications and space security issues.

"India as a partner state of MTCR can take part in the decision making process in ensuring non-proliferation of sensitive space technology related items through Technical Expert Meetings," he said.

Responding to another question of Department of Atomic Energy, Singh said India's entry to the Nuclear Suppliers Group will enable it to have an enhanced predictable global access to nuke technology, fuel, materials and components required for expanding civil nuclear programme.

"It would advance security, contribute to India's growth strategy based on clean energy to combat climate change and strengthen global nuclear non-proliferation," Singh said.