GSLV launch takes India closer to next generation of satellite capability: PM Narendra Modi

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today hailed the successful launch of India's heaviest rocket and said it takes the country closer to the next generation of satellite capability.

The country's heaviest rocket GSLV MKIII-D1 carrying communication satellite GSAT-19 lifted off from Sriharikota at 5.28 pm and was soon put in orbit successfully.

"Congratulations to the dedicated scientists of ISRO for the successful launch of GSLV - MKIII D1/GSAT-19 mission," the prime minister tweeted soon after.

"The GSLV - MKIII D1/GSAT-19 mission takes India closer to the next generation launch vehicle and satellite capability. The nation is proud," he added in another tweet.

Modi spoke to the Secretary, Department of Space and congratulated him and his team on the successful launch, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said.

The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark-III (GSLV Mk-III) weighs equivalent to the weight of five fully- loaded Boeing Jumbo Jets or as much as 200 fully grown elephants.