China leaps ahead with reusable rocket booster, India’s NGLV years away

China demonstrated orbital rocket booster recovery, joining reusable launch system developers. India's Next Generation Launch Vehicle program is still years from a demonstration flight. This achievement narrows the gap with global leaders like SpaceX and Blue Origin. Recovering and reusing rocket stages significantly reduces launch costs and increases frequency. India is committed to reusable launchers through its NGLV program.

By CHETHAN KUMAR