The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) successfully launched the 450-crore GSAT-9 or the South Asia Communication Satellite at ISRO, Sriharikota today. The satellite is Prime Minister Narendra Modi's gift to six SAARC nations - India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Maldives, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. "We extend our close links into Outer Space," said PM Modi in his speech addressing the leaders of the six beneficiary nations via video conference. "Space technology will touch the lives of our people in the region," he added.