An academic research report on Space Tourism in India conducted by students and faculty members of the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), Dehradun in association with the Institute of Air & Space Law, McGill University, Montreal, Canada was released by Dr Nasim Zaidi, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India.

1. First Research Report on ‘Space Tourism in India’ released <br />Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation applauds the milestone <br />March 30th 2011, New Delhi, India: An academic research report on Space Tourism in India conducted by students and faculty members of the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES), Dehradun in association with the Institute of Air & Space Law, McGill University, Montreal, Canada was released by Dr Nasim Zaidi, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India.<br />Applauding the efforts of UPES on the accomplishment of this Report, Dr Zaidi, Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation expressed his belief that, “In the years to come, this Report, the first ever in the country, will serve as a basic report for future research reports in the rapidly emerging field of space tourism and hence a truly momentous occasion for the University”. He also stated that the Report was impressive in its contents and perspectives on the present and future challenges of this emerging industry.<br />Speaking on the release of the Research Report, Dr Parag Diwan, Vice Chancellor, UPES said, “This is the first such Study in India in which a team of Research Assistants and Teachers from the fields of Management, Law and Aerospace Engineering have collaborated and brought their respective interdisciplinary perspectives to bear on an emerging area of commercial endeavour. It is hoped that the Study Report will bring about critical thinking and also serve as a basis for carrying out further research in this field”.<br />Space Tourism is one area where India can play a vital role with its affordable yet reliable solution. With the growth in the economy and the rapidly increasing middle and upper class, it is expected that a new industry on space tourism will evolve. With this vision, UPES embarked on such a Report that closely examines the feasibility and viability of space tourism in India. <br />The University recognises the value of pioneering education and research; it actively encourages and supports such academic endeavours that are inspired and driven by innovation. This project, one of the many innovations at UPES, is the first of its kind in India and consists of a Study about the potential of, and possible operation of, a space tourism industry in India. This Report is a preliminary appraisal of the technological, infrastructural, financial, marketing, safety, and legal requirements for the establishment of a space tourism industry in India. <br />The conclusions of the Study are synthesized into a series of recommendations aimed at instigating policymakers, stakeholders in the aerospace industry as well as the general public in India to start thinking critically about the potential role of space tourism in generating employment in, and enhancing the global credibility of, India as a major space-faring and advanced nation.<br /> <br />About UPES <br />UPES offers a bouquet of programs that are truly innovative by design and cut across the continuum of Oil & Gas, Energy, Power, Transportation, Infrastructure and Logistics & Supply Chain Sectors. UPES under its Centre for Aviation Studies (CAS) is amongst a group of very select institutes in India providing unique courses in the dynamic field of Aviation as well. <br />Located at the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains in Dehradun, UPES is Asia’s first Energy and Core Sector University. Approved by UGC and accredited by NAAC, the University offers 46 domain specific undergraduate and postgraduate programs imparted by over 250 vastly experienced faculty members. <br />Having placed more than 3000 students in around 400 top companies, UPES is today at the forefront of higher education and playing a leadership role in setting new academic benchmarks and creating “future ready” professionals.<br />The basket of programs on Aviation offered by UPES include B Tech Aerospace Engineering, a unique combined course in aeronautical, space science and avionics, B Tech Aerospace Engineering with specialization in Avionics Engineering designed to specific areas of aerospace and avionics integrating key concepts and techniques from the field of aeronautics, electronics and instrumentation; BBA Aviations Operations and MBA Aviation Management catering to the aviation sector and allied field of travel and tourism. The program has a unique advantage of built - in IATA / UFTAA foundation course. <br />For more information on UPES, visit www.upes.ac.in <br />Corporate Communication<br />University of Petroleum & Energy Studies (UPES),<br />Dehradun<br /> <br />