PM Modi Interacts with 1st Indian Astronaut Aboard the ISS, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla
New Delhi, Jun 28: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a historic video interaction with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to reach the International Space Station (ISS), marking a milestone in India’s space journey. Calling it a proud moment for the entire nation, the Prime Minister said that although Shukla was physically the farthest from India, he remained closest to the hearts of 140 crore Indians. “This is not just a conversation between two individuals,” PM Modi said, “but a reflection of a nation’s aspirations.”
The astronaut thanked the Prime Minister for his warm wishes and said he was in good health and deeply moved by the outpouring of support from across India. Describing his experience aboard the ISS as profound and symbolic, Shukla said his journey reflected the dreams of millions of Indians. “From Earth to orbit, this 400-kilometre journey represents the ambitions of a rising India,” he added.
In a light-hearted exchange, PM Modi asked whether the traditional Indian sweets Shukla carried—like gajar ka halwa, moong dal halwa, and aam ras—had been shared with fellow astronauts. Shukla replied that they had indeed enjoyed the dishes together, and the flavours had been so appreciated that some of his international colleagues expressed a wish to visit India.
The Prime Minister observed that Shukla had now performed a rare parikrama—circumambulation of the Earth—drawing a link between India’s spiritual traditions and its modern scientific milestones. Shukla shared that the ISS orbits Earth 16 times a day, offering 16 sunrises and sunsets, an awe-inspiring experience.
Reflecting on the view from space, Shukla said one realises the planet has no borders—just a vast, unified Earth. “From up here, India looks grand—both in size and spirit,” he said, echoing India’s timeless message of “unity in diversity.”
The astronaut also described how his training on Earth differed from the real challenges in zero gravity. Even simple tasks like drinking water or sleeping require adaptation, he noted with humour, adding, “I had to strap my feet down even to talk to you.” PM Modi asked about the scientific experiments being carried out. Shukla revealed that seven Indian-designed experiments are underway, including one on stem cell regeneration to combat muscle loss in microgravity—research that could aid the elderly back on Earth. Another project focuses on growing microalgae, with potential benefits for future food security.
Touching on the role of mindfulness in space, Shukla said that India’s twin heritage of science and spirituality helps astronauts cope with high-pressure conditions. He noted that inner calm was essential for decision-making in orbit.
The Prime Minister said that children across India were increasingly inspired by space science and that Shukla’s mission would further ignite that spark. When asked for a message to young Indians, Shukla encouraged them to dream boldly and persevere: “There is no single road to success, but giving up is never an option.”
PM Modi concluded by stating that Shukla’s mission was just the first chapter in India’s broader space ambitions—including Gaganyaan, an Indian space station, and a Moon landing. He urged the astronaut to document every learning for future missions.
In his closing remarks, Shukla thanked the Prime Minister for the interaction and dedicated his achievement to the people of India. He said seeing the Indian flag now flying aboard the ISS filled him with emotion and pride. The Prime Minister extended his warmest wishes for the success of the mission and assured Shukla that the nation eagerly awaited his return.
