PM Modi Meets Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, Hails Historic Space Mission

New Delhi, Aug 2025 :Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian to travel to the International Space Station (ISS), met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the capital on Monday. The meeting, held at the Prime Minister’s official residence, was marked by warmth and national pride as Shukla briefed Modi about his historic space mission.

During their interaction, Shukla shared his experiences from the 18-day mission and showed the Prime Minister photographs taken from space. Their discussion also touched upon the significance of such missions for India’s future, particularly the upcoming Gaganyaan programme — the country’s maiden human spaceflight mission.

“Had a great interaction with Shubhanshu Shukla. We discussed a wide range of subjects, including his experiences in space, progress in science and technology, as well as India’s ambitious Gaganyaan mission,” Modi posted on social media platform X. He added that “India is proud of his feat,” calling Shukla’s journey a source of inspiration for millions.

Shukla created history in June by becoming the first Indian astronaut to reach the ISS, where he participated in experiments designed by ISRO and carried out collaborative research with international partners. After completing the mission, he returned to Earth on July 15 and underwent rehabilitation in the US before flying back to India early Sunday morning.

In his Independence Day address to the nation, the Prime Minister had already highlighted Shukla’s accomplishment, noting that it marked a “significant step in advancing India’s space ambitions” and inspired “a billion dreams.” Modi also reaffirmed the government’s vision of building self-reliance in space technology, launching Gaganyaan, and eventually establishing an Indian space station.

Earlier on Monday, Parliament paid tribute to Group Captain Shukla’s achievement in a special session led by Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh. The House lauded the astronaut for opening “a new chapter in India’s space exploration.” Singh emphasised that Shukla’s mission not only showcased India’s scientific capabilities but also inspired young Indians to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and space.

Although opposition parties staged a boycott of the proceedings, the mood inside Parliament was celebratory, with lawmakers praising the IAF pilot’s determination and courage. Members described his mission as a milestone that strengthens India’s preparedness for future human spaceflight.

Shukla’s participation in the NASA-led Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission was also hailed as a valuable learning experience. Experts noted that working alongside international astronauts has provided India with critical insights, laying the groundwork for Gaganyaan and beyond.

As Shubhanshu Shukla returns home, his journey is being hailed not just as a personal triumph, but as a defining moment in India’s space odyssey.