India’s space program is on the brink of a historic milestone as women are soon expected to join the astronaut corps. In an exclusive interview, Air Vice Marshal Anupam Agarwal, Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Medical) and space medicine expert, shared India’s inclusive vision for space exploration, promising the arrival of female astronauts in upcoming missions like Gaganyaan.

Why No Women Were in the First Astronaut Group

The absence of women in the initial astronaut selection has raised questions. Air Vice Marshal Agarwal clarified the challenges faced during the 2019 selection process.

“When building new space systems from scratch, many unknowns and risks exist,” he explained. “The first mission required highly trained test pilots with exceptional skills and experience handling unknown aircraft. At that time, only male test pilots existed in the Indian Air Force.”

Test pilots are trained to fly aircraft under extreme and uncertain conditions — critical for pioneering space missions. “The skills needed — sharp reflexes, adaptability, and calm under pressure — were present only in male test pilots back then. Unfortunately, no female test pilots qualified at that level in 2019,” Agarwal added.

Growing Inclusion: Women Fighter Pilots and Future Astronauts

Though several women have since become fighter pilots in the Indian Air Force, none have yet met the strict criteria to become test pilots. This is expected to change soon.

Globally, women of Indian origin like Kalpana Chawla and Sunita Williams have flown to space through NASA, but India itself is preparing to send its own daughters to space.

A Bright and Inclusive Future in Indian Space Exploration

Air Vice Marshal Agarwal affirmed, “ISRO and the Government of India are committed to inclusion. Women astronauts will soon be part of India’s space missions.”

This vision aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement during Independence Day 2018:

“We have a dream… some of our young boys and girls will unfurl the Tricolour in space.”

The future astronaut corps will not be limited to scientists or engineers. It could include civilians from diverse professions — educators, artists, and more — representing India’s broad talent pool.

Key Takeaways

• Women were not part of the first astronaut group due to the absence of female test pilots in 2019.

• ISRO and the Indian Government are determined to send female astronauts soon.

• India’s future space missions will be more inclusive, welcoming civilians and professionals from varied fields.

• The commitment reflects India’s growing ambitions in space and gender equality.

India’s daughter will soon touch the stars — a historic step that reflects the nation’s promise of progress, inclusion, and pride.