Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh Meets First Indian Astronaut on ISS, Gp Capt Shubhanshu Shukla

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh met Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to serve onboard the International Space Station (ISS), in New Delhi on August 21, 2025. The Defence Minister hailed the milestone as a landmark moment in India’s journey towards human spaceflight, praising Gp Capt Shukla for his extraordinary accomplishment.

Gp Capt Shubhanshu Shukla’s Contribution to Space Research

Shri Rajnath Singh lauded the astronaut’s efforts in conducting crucial scientific experiments in orbit, noting that his work would greatly advance India’s space research and exploration capabilities. He further expressed confidence that Shukla’s inspiring journey would encourage the youth of India to pursue careers in science, technology, and space exploration.

Discussion on Gaganyaan Mission and IAF’s Role

Sharing details on X after the interaction, the Raksha Mantri revealed that he and Shukla discussed the astronaut’s space journey, experiments undertaken aboard the ISS, and the path ahead for India’s Gaganyaan mission. He also highlighted the critical role of the Indian Air Force (IAF) in astronaut selection, training, and mission support in partnership with ISRO, stressing that the professionalism of IAF personnel is central to India’s progress in human spaceflight.

India’s Space Ambitions Strengthened by ISS Mission

India, already celebrated for its successful missions to the Moon and Mars, is now charting the course for manned space expeditions and the eventual establishment of its own space station. The successful ISS mission of Gp Capt Shukla symbolizes the synergy between ISRO, IAF, and national stakeholders, boosting India’s global standing as an emerging spacefaring nation.

Get Latest News Live on MTIMES along with Breaking News and Top Headlines, Political News and around The World.