PM Hails Shubhanshu Shukla as the Torchbearer of 1.4 Billion Indians’ Hopes

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has made history by becoming only the second Indian to travel into space, marking a significant milestone in India's growing space ambitions. Piloting the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS), Shukla follows in the footsteps of Rakesh Sharma, who became the first Indian to venture into space in 1984. This momentous achievement was widely celebrated across the country, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other senior leaders offering heartfelt congratulations and acknowledging its symbolic importance for India's aspirations in space exploration.

Prime Minister Modi described Shukla’s journey as a source of pride for all Indians, stating that he carries the “wishes, hopes, and aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians.” He highlighted that Shukla is set to become the first Indian to visit the ISS, a feat that further underscores India’s increasing capabilities and contributions to space science and international cooperation.

The Axiom-4 mission, launched aboard SpaceX's Crew Dragon spacecraft, took off from NASA's iconic Launch Complex 39A—the very launchpad from which Neil Armstrong began his historic journey to the Moon in 1969. The selection of this site added a layer of historical significance to Shukla’s mission, linking India's current space journey to a rich legacy of global space exploration.

President Droupadi Murmu also expressed her pride and excitement over Shukla’s achievement. She called the mission a reflection of the strong and enduring collaboration between NASA and India’s space agency, ISRO. In her message posted on social media, President Murmu stated, “As Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla creates a new milestone in space for India, the whole nation is excited and proud of an Indian’s journey into the stars.” She emphasized the scientific value of the mission, noting that the wide range of experiments to be conducted on board would pave the way for new advances in scientific research and space technology.

Shukla, a seasoned pilot in the Indian Air Force, is expected to spend approximately two weeks aboard the ISS. During his stay, he will perform a series of scientific experiments on behalf of India. These experiments are expected to contribute valuable data to global scientific studies in areas such as microgravity, material science, biology, and environmental monitoring, showcasing India’s growing expertise and active participation in international space missions.

The Axiom-4 mission also symbolizes India’s broader ambitions in the field of space exploration. With its strong focus on indigenous space missions like Gaganyaan and expanding global partnerships, India is emerging as a key player in the new era of space development. Shukla’s journey represents not just a personal accomplishment, but a national one—embodying the collective dreams of a nation striving for excellence and leadership in the final frontier.

As India continues to invest in its space capabilities, this mission reaffirms the country's determination to explore, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to the global space community. Shubhanshu Shukla's name now joins the ranks of pioneering astronauts, inspiring future generations of Indian scientists, engineers, and dreamers.