Shubhanshu Shukla, India’s 2nd Astronaut, Returns Home
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the second Indian to travel into space and the first to visit the International Space Station (ISS), returned to India on Sunday after completing the successful Axiom-4 mission. The mission was carried out in collaboration with NASA, SpaceX, and ISRO, marking a historic milestone in India’s growing role in global space exploration.
Warm Reception in Delhi
Shukla arrived at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport to a grand welcome. He was received by Union Minister Jitendra Singh, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and senior ISRO officials. Hundreds gathered at the airport waving the national flag and chanting slogans to celebrate his safe return. The event was hailed as a moment of immense pride for the country.
Significance for India’s Space Program
With this achievement, Shukla has become only the second Indian to enter space after Rakesh Sharma in 1984, and the first to spend time aboard the ISS. During his 21-day mission, he carried out multiple scientific experiments, focusing on areas like space medicine and advanced material testing. His work is expected to directly contribute to India’s upcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight project, which aims to send Indian astronauts into orbit aboard an indigenous spacecraft.
Reflections and Future Plans
On his return, Shukla described the experience as life-changing and expressed gratitude for the support of the Indian people. He is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the coming days and will participate in National Space Day celebrations. Shukla is also expected to visit his hometown Lucknow, where preparations are underway for a hero’s welcome.
