Delhi, 21 August (H.S.): Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh lauded Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s historic spaceflight aboard the Axiom-4 mission as a resounding affirmation of India’s self-reliant and globally inclusive vision, underlining the embodiment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s flagship mantras of Atmanirbhar Bharat, Whole of Nation effort, and Vishwabandhu Bharat. Introduced alongside fellow astronaut Group Captain Prasanth B. Nair at an ISRO press conference, they highlighted India’s advancing prowess in space exploration, inspiring a new generation to dream beyond Earth’s boundaries.

Dr. Singh emphasized that Shukla’s mission reflected India’s indigenous technological capabilities, collaboration with diverse scientific institutions, and contributions to humanity at large—foundations critical to the forthcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight program. Shukla recounting his ISS experience described the mission as transformative, equipping India with invaluable microgravity research insights and fostering international teamwork essential for future endeavors.

Both astronauts expressed pride in India’s growing stature within the global space community, recognizing respect from international partners and reaffirming space exploration’s role in national progress. Shukla urged youth to envisage their futures among the stars, while Nair acknowledged the collective efforts powering India’s ambitions.

ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan reinforced the significance of the Gaganyaan program and future missions slated for the decade, marking 2025 as a landmark year of unprecedented steps toward India’s emergence as a key player in human spaceflight. The uncrewed Gaganyaan test mission featuring the humanoid robot Vyommitra is scheduled for December 2025, laying robust groundwork for a manned flight targeted for 2027.

This milestone mission not only commands global respect but also signals India’s readiness to contribute meaningfully to humanity’s shared quest for cosmic exploration, affirming a blend of tradition, innovation, and international cooperation that defines the nation’s space vision.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar