Prime Minister Narendra Modi Interacts with Shubhanshu Shukla Aboard ISS
Shubhaarambh of new Era in the Indian Space Programme
By R Anil Kumar
INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION, June 28. Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who is aboard the International Space Station, via video conferencing.
Shubhanshu Shukla who along with three other Astronauts flew to the International Space Station aboard the SpaceX Dragon capsule from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, as part of the Axiom-4 mission, is the first Indian to fly to the ISS.
Speaking to Shukla who created history by being the first Indian Astronaut to have achieved this unique feat, the Prime Minister said “ You are farthest from India above in the Space but are closest to the hearts of every Indian.
Citing that his name itself has ‘Shubh’ (auspicious), in it, the Prime Minister said that his (Shubhanshu) successful Journey to Space marks the ‘Shubhaarambh’ the beginning of a new Era in India’s Space Programme, bringing laurels to the Nation.
The youths of today will not only be inspired by your achievement, but the whole of nation feels a sense of pride by your accomplishments, PM Modi stated.
When Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked how Bharat looked from above in Space, for which Shukla replied- Bharat looked more grander and bigger from Space.
In his message to all fellow Indians, especially the youth, he said if there is sincere, honest efforts one could achieve big and bring laurels and pride to the nation. Sky is never the limit, for you, me or for our great Nation-Bharat.
The Prime Minister extending his personal and the whole of the Countrymen wishes, exuded confidence that the experience and accomplishments of his (Shubhanshu Shukla), would go a long way in India’s future Space Endeavours be it the Gaganyaan mission, Bharatiya Antariksh Station mission, among others.
Finally, the duo concluded with exchange of Bharat Maata Ki Jai, Slogan.
The PMO shared a photograph of the interaction between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla.
