Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday felicitated Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, Group Captain PB Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, and Group Captain Angad Pratap, the astronauts selected for ISRO’s maiden human space flight mission, Gaganyaan, at an event in New Delhi. Describing the four Gaganyatris as “gems of the country” and pioneers of India’s aspirations, Singh emphasized the nation’s expanding role in space exploration.
Addressing the gathering, the Defence Minister underscored that India views space not merely as a domain of research but as a frontier for the future of economy, security, energy, and humanity. He highlighted India’s steady progress beyond Earth, citing milestones from the Chandrayaan mission to Mangalyaan and the nation’s preparedness for ambitious projects like Gaganyaan. Singh described Gaganyaan as more than a technological achievement, calling it a new chapter in India’s journey toward self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Singh noted that India’s space programme reflects the nation’s aspirations and global vision, achieving remarkable feats despite limited resources through sheer willpower. He pointed out that space-derived technologies, such as communication satellites, weather monitoring, and disaster management systems, are now benefiting villages and fields across the country. Looking ahead, he emphasized that space mining, deep space exploration, and planetary resources will redefine human civilization, and India must remain at the forefront of this journey.
The Defence Minister lauded Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla for his successful mission to the International Space Station under Axiom Mission 4, describing his determination and courage as a source of national pride. Completing a rigorous two-and-a-half-year training program in just two-and-a-half months, Shukla’s achievement was hailed as a testament to his dedication and the perseverance of the Indian people. Singh described the feat as not just a technological milestone but a symbol of faith and progress for humanity.
Highlighting Shukla’s role as a bridge between civil and military sectors, Singh noted that while the officer represents the Indian Air Force, his space mission was undertaken on behalf of all humanity. This historic contribution, he said, would be etched in history. The Defence Minister also commended the Institute of Aerospace Medicine for its critical role in preparing astronauts physically, mentally, emotionally, and psychologically, with Shukla serving as a shining example of its success.
During the event, Group Captain Shukla shared his extraordinary experience of traveling to the International Space Station. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh were also present at the felicitation ceremony.