Asserting that space is an instrument of development, India has said developing nations should be allowed to benefit from space application programmes through international cooperation.
It also suggested development of an integrated global disaster management system with utmost urgency.
"We earnestly believe that the space is an instrument of development. We encourage capacity building through international cooperation enabling the developing countries to benefit from space application programmes," Indian delegate Pramod Mahajan told a United Nations committee.
Referring to the recent disasters from tsunami in the Indian Ocean to the earthquake in south Asia, Mahajan said there was an urgent need for development of an integrated global disaster management system.
Supporting the recommendations of the action team on an Integrated Global Disaster Management System led by Canada, China and France to establish a Disaster Management International Space Coordination Organization, he said, India prefers the alignment to have informational, coordination and operational functions under the UN umbrella to ensure universal access.
Innovative financial models must be explored to make this initiative effective and useful to one and all, he added.
It has always been India's endeavour, he said, to serve the poor, illiterate and deprived masses, using the latest space technology.
To achieve this objective, a large number of satellite-based educational networks are being commissioned and telemedicine projects being further expanded.
© 2025