In a defining moment for India’s space journey, Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with ISRO Gaganyatri Shubhanshu Shukla aboard the International Space Station (ISS). This marked the first time an Indian Prime Minister has spoken to an Indian astronaut in orbit. Shukla is currently on board the ISS as part of the Axiom-4 Mission, which launched on June 25, 2025 from Kennedy Space Center, Florida, via a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft.
During their live conversation conducted in Hindi, PM Modi expressed national pride and joy, stating,
“Shubhanshu, you are the farthest from the motherland, but closest to the hearts of 140 crore Indians.”
He congratulated Shukla on behalf of the entire nation for carrying the Indian flag into space, and for representing the spirit and potential of a new India in the global space arena.
“This Is India’s Journey, Not Just Mine”: Shubhanshu Shukla
In an emotional response, Shukla thanked PM Modi and all Indians for their love and encouragement.
“This journey from Earth to space is not mine alone—it belongs to the entire country,” he said.
“Growing up, I never imagined becoming an astronaut. But under your leadership, dreams like mine are becoming reality in India.”
He also emphasized the symbolic power of his mission for India’s youth, who now see space exploration as a tangible dream.
The Taste of India in Space
In a lighter moment, the Prime Minister asked whether Shukla had shared Carrot Halwa (Gajar ka Halwa) with his international colleagues. Shukla confirmed that the crew enjoyed it, showing how Indian culture and cuisine are finding their place even in orbit.
The Overview Effect: “Borders Disappear from Space”
Describing his view of Earth from space, Shukla touched on the “overview effect”, an emotional realization many astronauts experience when they see the Earth as one unit without borders.
“From orbit, there are no boundaries. India looks massive—far larger than what maps show,” he said.
“It makes you feel we are all citizens of one planet.”
Life in Microgravity: “Even Sleeping Is a Challenge”
When asked about day-to-day life on the ISS, Shukla explained how microgravity changes everything.
“Our bodies are used to gravity on Earth. In space, even holding a microphone, drinking water, or sleeping is difficult,” he said.
“Right now, my legs are strapped down so I don’t float away.”
Shukla added that although his training helped, adapting to space took effort, focus, and calmness.
Axiom-4: A Giant Leap for India
The Axiom-4 mission represents a significant step in India’s participation in international human spaceflight. Shukla is expected to spend 12 days aboard the ISS, conducting scientific experiments and participating in outreach activities with school students and amateur radio communities.
This mission not only boosts India’s space diplomacy but also inspires millions of youth to pursue careers in science and space technology.