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preventive steps that might minimise the creation of space debris. The Code
does not dwell on consequences for wrongful actions by subscribers. The
Code should address this lacuna.
The conduct of space activities by different states is subject to their varying
capabilities and there may be efforts on the part of states to enhance their
capabilities at any point in the future. The space environment has to be
conducive to this. Furthermore, the capability to monitor the space
environment and space situation is highly limited. The Code needs to address
in greater detail the responsibility of those who have such capacity to
monitor activities in outer space and how they could provide access to
information to all potentially affected states. Both sections 5 and 6 in the
Code on notification and information sections should address the gap
between the need for information and the capacity to provide it.
Indian Space – National Interest and the Code
The Indian space programme is primarily built for civilian, scientific, and
environmental activities – but at the same time, India should never give away
its right to use space, if required, for any national or security interest that it
determines rightful. Thus, assured access to space is important for the 1.25
billion people residing in India – to manage its land, forests, water and the
environment; to provide education, health and connectivity to remote and
rural areas; to facilitate TV broadcasting to each home; to manage disasters
better; to develop the knowledge quotient of its young population in space
science and also to wind aspirations to planetary explorations among others.
At the same time, India should use imagery to extract intelligence; use
encrypted and personalised satellite communications as part of a secure
information infrastructure; power national “information systems” that can
bring any advanced knowledge of national security threats.
With its global role increasing and tremendous potential in the area of hightech
including outer space, India is a leader among all spacefaring nations –
planning to invest INR equivalent of nearly six billion USD in the five-year
period of 2012-2017. Of course, the government owns and operates all of
India's space systems and has a number of operational space objects. India
participates in the UN and other international fora addressing the threat
posed by space debris.
166 | Awaiting Launch: Perspectives on the Draft ICoC for Outer Space Activities