New Delhi: Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates has shared his thoughts on astronaut Sunita Williams' safe return to Earth and India’s growing influence in space technology.

In an exclusive interview with Times Network Group Editor-in-Chief Navika Kumar, Gates said, "I'm glad she's safe, and I was amazed at how patient they were. They didn't seem to complain at all, which is great."

Discussing India’s strides in space and technology, Gates emphasised the nation’s role in developing cost-effective solutions.

"I am a very ground-based person, but even I would admit that some of these things we are going to do with satellites—such as weather and agricultural observation—are benefiting us back here. India, amongst its huge number of startups—cheap rockets or satellites or cheap sensors—is part of that game, making a contribution," he said.

Gates also highlighted how satellite data could be leveraged for societal development, particularly by organisations like the Gates Foundation. "How do you help the people here? By taking that data that we never had in the past," he noted.

When asked about India's progress in space technology and whether the country is catching up with global leaders, Gates was optimistic.

"India is making a contribution across the board, research budgets are going up, it's fantastic that now it is a very affordable thing and it will supercharge... it will help the universities. And in some areas like nutrition, we will be there as a partner, solving issues that will have such an incredible impact," he stated.

India’s advancements in space innovation, supported by an expanding research ecosystem, continue to position the country as a key player in the global space industry.