Page 14 - NIS English 16-31 July,2025

NATION | Space Flight

SHUBHANSHU TOLD PM MODI
INDIA LOOKS GRAND FROM SPACE

Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself spoke directly to Group Captain Shubhanshu
about the Axiom-4 mission, which has become a new symbol of India’s scientific
capability in space and its strong participation in global space research. In this
conversation held on June 28, PM Modi congratulated Shubhanshu and also said that
today you are far away from the motherland, from the land of India, but you are
closest to the hearts of Indians. Shubhanshu also shared his experience of seeing India
from space. Here are edited excerpts of the conversation…

Prime Minister: There is auspiciousness in your Prime Minister: Well, what was the first
name, and your journey is also the beginning thought that came to your mind after seeing
of a new era. At this time, we two are talking, the vastness of space?
but the sentiments of 140 crore Indians are also
with me. I extend my heartiest congratulations Shubhanshu Shukla: Prime Minister ji, to
and best wishes to you for hoisting the flag of be honest, when we reached the orbit for the
India in space. I am not taking much time, so first time, reached space, the first view was of
first of all tell me, is everything fine there? Are the Earth and the first thought after seeing the
you feeling well? Earth from outside, the first thought that came
Shubhanshu Shukla: Yes, Prime Minister Ji! Thank to mind was that the Earth looks completely
you very much for your wishes and the wishes of uniform, I mean no boundary line, no border
my 140 crore countrymen. I am absolutely fine and is visible from outside. India really looks very
safe here. Because of your blessings and love… I grand, looks very big. It is much bigger than
am feeling very good. This is a very new expe- what we see on the map and the feeling of
rience. When I was young, I could never imagine oneness, the feeling of oneness of the earth,
that I could become an astronaut. But I believe which is also our motto that unity in diversity, its
that today’s India under your leadership provides importance is understood in such a way when
this opportunity and also gives a chance to realize seen from outside that it seems that no border
those dreams. So, this is a great achievement for exists, no state exists, no countries exist, finally
me and I feel very proud that I am able to represent we all are a part of humanity and the earth is
my country here. our home and all of us are its citizens.

12 NEW INDIA SAMACHAR || July 16-31, 2025