India’s landmark victory of becoming the first country to make a soft landing on the moon’s South Pole shares the true spirit of ambitious teamwork of the ISRO community (In historic first, India’s Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft lands safely on moon, 23/08/2023).  The country remains in a temper to conquer an era of struggles and hard work. With the overwhelming support of the Indian community worldwide, the milestone has been achieved. At the same time, it is disappointing that several reports from the media and views of the individuals have made shameful arguments, such as why the world’s most populous country is investing so much money and effort when people still lack basic facilities.

The world is aware of India’s freedom struggle and the destruction of life and property during the partition over seven decades ago. Who will take responsibility for such a mess?  The achievements of India since it became independent were at a slow pace, and today, with technology being so much more advanced and reachable, why not make it utilise its resources in which science cannot be overlooked and kept aside. People who criticise must also understand that every country, including the so-called developed countries, has an unseen dark side to its growth and development and how commoners continue struggling there for survival.  It happens, as shaping everything and investing in it would only delay the purpose and achievements. Concrete structures and advanced weapons are not the criteria to measure a nation’s growth; sadly, they are visible only to a small section of the world population. The changing reality of life takes time, and this can be achieved through a process that needs contributions from every segment of society. Wishing the entire ISRO community the very best for their outstanding achievements.

Ramachandran Nair,
Muscat