Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday congratulated the scientists and engineers of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) following the successful launch of the GSLV-F18 rocket carrying the NVS-03 navigation satellite. He praised the team's dedication and said the mission would strengthen India's indigenous satellite navigation system, NavIC, while advancing the country's efforts towards self-reliance in critical technologies.

In a post on X, Modi highlighted the satellite's enhanced capabilities and its role in improving navigation services across the country. "The dedication and ingenuity of our space scientists continue to make our nation proud," PM Modi said, congratulating the team behind the mission.

"This mission marks an important step in strengthening NavIC, our indigenous satellite navigation system. Equipped with enhanced capabilities, NVS-03 will further our pursuit of self-reliance in critical technologies and support navigation services that benefit our people," he further added.

The GSLV-F18 rocket lifted off from the Second Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota at 11.51 pm on Friday. More than 20 minutes after liftoff, the launch vehicle successfully placed the NVS-03 satellite into its intended Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO).

ISRO Chairman Dr V. Narayanan, who monitored the launch, announced the successful completion of the mission. He also congratulated the industry partners and engineers involved in developing the satellite.

The mission marked the 20th flight of India's Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). Weighing around 2,250 kg, NVS-03 is the third satellite in ISRO's second-generation navigation satellite series.

The satellite aims to ensure continuity and improve the availability of navigation services under the Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC). The mission holds strategic importance as India seeks to strengthen its independent positioning, navigation and timing capabilities for civilian, commercial and strategic applications.