India News Manch: Political heavyweights debate nation's future

Under the banner of the ITV Network, the two-day India News Manch conclave is underway in the national capital on December 16 and 17, 2025, bringing together leading political figures, policymakers and subject experts from across the country.

- TIKAM SHARMA

The platform is hosting wide-ranging discussions on key national issues, governance challenges and India’s future priorities.

Addressing the gathering, Union Minister Jitendra Singh highlighted India’s expanding space ambitions, announcing that the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission is likely to be launched in 2027. Under the mission, Indian astronauts will be sent to low Earth orbit and safely brought back. He said its success would place India among a select group of four nations globally to have sent humans into space, marking a historic milestone in the country’s scientific and technological journey.

Senior BJP leader and former Union Minister Smriti Irani said the appointment of Nitin Nabin as the new working president of the Bharatiya Janata Party reflects recognition of dedication and hard work within the organisation. She remarked that entrusting such responsibility sends a clear message that consistent effort and commitment are rewarded with major roles in the party.

Making a personal observation, Irani said those deeply committed to their goals do not search for balance, while those who constantly do often fall short of their ambitions. "I have lived my life for fulfilment, not for mere verses," she said, adding that she never stepped away from politics and that her political journey began in Parliament rather than through organisational roles.