India seeks global treaty to prevent arms race in space

India called for a legally binding international agreement to prevent an arms race in space, even as it cautioned against selective or subjective interpretations of what constitutes “responsible” behaviour in orbit.

Delivering the national statement during the thematic debate on ‘Outer Space’ at the First Committee of the 80th UN General Assembly in New York, Indian diplomat Anmol Sher Bedi said India believed outer space “belongs to all of us — one Earth, one family, one future".

He highlighted that India’s space programme encompasses developmental and security dimensions, with major achievements such as the 2023 lunar landing, the ongoing Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission, and plans to set up the Bharatiya Antariksha Station.

On the Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space, India reiterated its preference for an acceptable and multilaterally negotiated legally binding instrument (LBI) under the Conference on Disarmament.

It also took note of the draft treaty on the Prevention of the Placement of Weapons in Outer Space, saying it could serve as a basis for further discussions.

“India recognizes that verification of space behaviour, including access to relevant information and data, poses challenges,” Sher said, while cautioning that “a selective focus on certain space threats over others will be counter-productive.”

He underscored that threats to the safety, security and sustainability of outer space -- including risks from misunderstanding, miscalculation and misperceptions -- must be considered comprehensively.

Sher added that while India supported responsible space behaviour, it was concerned about the subjectivity involved in defining and classifying behaviour as “responsible” or “irresponsible,” noting that such judgments must be transparent and universally agreed upon.

As a developing nation, India emphasised that space security discussions should not hinder peaceful scientific and technological cooperation, stressing that the benefits of space must remain accessible for all humanity.

“India stands ready to contribute to global efforts to strengthen the international legal framework and ensure peaceful uses of outer space while enhancing safety, security, and sustainability,” Sher said.