Shubhanshu Shukla Ashoka Chakra: Space Mission Hero Honoured on Republic Day 2026

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla was awarded the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry honour.
President Droupadi Murmu conferred the award during Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path.
Shukla became the second Indian to travel to space after joining the Axiom-4 ISS mission in 2025.

New Delhi: Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla Ashoka Chakra honour was conferred on Monday as President Droupadi Murmu awarded him India’s highest peacetime gallantry award during the 77th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path.

The prestigious award recognises Shukla’s extraordinary courage and leadership displayed during demanding circumstances in space.

Ashoka Chakra Presented at Kartavya Path

The decoration ceremony took place during the grand Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi, attended by top national leaders and dignitaries.

Officials confirmed that Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair will also be honoured with the Kirti Chakra for his distinguished service.

Shubhanshu Shukla’s Historic Journey to Space

Shukla made history in 2025 when he travelled to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission.

With this achievement, he became only the second Indian to go to space after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma’s landmark mission in 1984.

Courage and Leadership During Axiom-4 Mission

The Shubhanshu Shukla Ashoka Chakra award recognises the courage, presence of mind and swift decision-making he demonstrated under challenging conditions during the mission.

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Authorities said his unwavering dedication to duty stood out during critical moments aboard the ISS mission.

Scientific Experiments and Agricultural Breakthroughs in Space

During his stay at the International Space Station, Shukla carried out several key experiments, including agricultural trials in microgravity.

He successfully cultivated crops such as:

Fenugreek
Mung beans

These experiments marked an important advancement in space-based agricultural research and future sustainability studies.

Experts believe Shukla’s achievements will inspire countless young Indians, showcasing that determination and inner strength can make even space travel possible.

His recognition with the Ashoka Chakra highlights India’s growing presence in both defence excellence and global space exploration.