PRAYAGRAJ, Aug. 18 -- India is set to achieve major milestones in space exploration over the coming years, with its own space station expected to be operational by 2035 and a fully indigenous Moon mission planned by 2040, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman and secretary of the department of space, V Narayanan announced on Saturday evening. Speaking at the 22nd convocation ceremony of Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology (MNNIT), Allahabad, ISRO chairman V Narayanan said that India is poised to reach new heights in space science in the coming years with the Chandrayaan-4 mission already approved and set to serve as a sample-return mission. He added that India's own space station will become operational by 2035, with the first phase scheduled to begin in 2027. "By 2040, Indian astronauts will land on the Moon using entirely indigenous technology and return safely," he stated, emphasising India's advancing self-reliance in space science. He also announced plans for the Venus Orbiter Mission, aimed at studying the planet in greater detail. Prof Anil Sahasrabudhe, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) and the National Board of Accreditation (NBA), emphasised that the journey of learning continues throughout life and advised students to adopt a professional attitude and remain dedicated to their work. MNNIT director Prof RS Verma reported that 83.29% of undergraduate and 81.79% of postgraduate students secured placements. During the 2024-25 fiscal year, the institute received approval for 19 new research projects worth Rs.5.31 crore. Additionally, 19 patents were granted, and 7 new patents filed. Vivek Lall, Chairperson of MNNIT's Board of Governors, presided over the convocation virtually. A total of 1,569 degrees were awarded during the convocation....