India is celebrating a momentous milestone in its space journey as Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla returned safely to Earth after completing the historic Axiom Mission 4, making him the first Indian astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS). The 39-year-old Indian Air Force officer and test pilot spent 18 days aboard the ISS conducting advanced scientific experiments and participating in international space collaboration efforts.
Shukla and the rest of the Axiom-4 crew landed safely off the coast of California in the Dragon capsule "Grace," completing a 22.5-hour journey from the ISS. After multiple reentry burns, parachute deployments, and recovery checks, the astronauts were successfully assisted onto the recovery vehicle. The mission represents not only a personal victory for Shukla but also a symbolic leap forward for India’s aspirations in space.
“A Historic Moment for India”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the return, saying, "I join the nation in welcoming Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla as he returns to Earth from his historic mission to Space. As India’s first astronaut to have visited the ISS, he has inspired a billion dreams through his dedication, courage and pioneering spirit. It marks another milestone towards our own Human Space Flight Mission – Gaganyaan."
Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh echoed the significance, saying, "Bharat today has truly found an enduring space in the world of Space. It is a moment of glory for India as one of our illustrious sons returns after completing a successful voyage."
Emotions Run High Among Family and Public
Shukla’s family, overwhelmed with joy, celebrated his return by cutting a cake at their residence. His mother, Asha Shukla, said emotionally, “My son has safely returned, I thank God… I got emotional, after all, my son has returned after many days.” His father, Shambhu Dayal Shukla, added, “We felt amazing that Shubhanshu’s mission was successful and that he had a safe landing. We are very proud of him.”
Leaders Across Political Spectrum Congratulate
Political leaders from across India praised the astronaut’s courage and dedication. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his pride: “Welcome back to Earth. Heartfelt congratulations to Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and his team… Every Indian, especially those from Uttar Pradesh, feels proud.”
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also lauded his achievement, writing, “Welcome home, Shubhanshu Shukla! It is a matter of pride for us to see what you have done.”
Rajnath Singh, Union Defence Minister, remarked, “He has not just touched space, he has lifted India’s aspirations to new heights.”
A Giant Leap Towards Gaganyaan
BJP President J.P. Nadda placed Shukla’s mission in the context of India’s future in human spaceflight: “His achievement is not just a personal milestone but a proud moment for the entire nation… This feat is a big step toward India’s own human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan.”
Inspiring Future Generations
Union Minister Jitendra Singh emphasized the global relevance of Shukla’s mission: “The experiments conducted by Shubhanshu are going to be of relevance for the whole world. We are now capable of pioneering maiden experiments previously unattempted by others.”
As Shubhanshu Shukla waved to the camera upon exiting Dragon, his image marked a new chapter in India’s space exploration journey—one that celebrates inspiration, science, and national pride.
