Shux finds mention in PM's Mann Ki Baat: People jumped with joy on his space return

India Today

27-07-2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday praised Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's recent space mission, calling it a moment of national pride that sparked joy across the country. Addressing the 124th episode of his monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat on July 27, PM Modi said Shukla's safe return had ignited a wave of happiness and stirred nationwide admiration."In the past few weeks, a lot has happened that has made every Indian proud - be it sports, science or culture," said the Prime Minister.advertisement"Recently, Shubhanshu Shukla's return from space was discussed a lot in the country. The moment Shubhanshu landed safely back on Earth, people jumped with joy. A wave of happiness spread across every heart. The whole country was filled with pride."The recent years have witnessed a surge in interest towards space, science and innovation. Equally commendable are the strides made by our youth in various Olympiads. #MannKiBaat pic.twitter.com/2BHQkcLyIt— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 27, 2025
Shukla was one of four astronauts aboard the Axiom-4 mission, launched on June 25 aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. After spending nearly 20 days in microgravity and conducting experiments at the International Space Station (ISS), the crew splashed down safely off the coast of California on July 15. The mission marked a historic milestone as the first time an Indian entered the ISS.Prime Minister Modi said Shukla's feat had sparked a growing interest in science and space among children. "Shukla's achievement has ignited a growing interest in space among children," he said, adding that this reflected a broader wave of scientific curiosity throughout India.Drawing a parallel with the Chandrayaan-3 mission, which landed on the moon in August 2023, PM Modi recalled the excitement it generated among young minds. "Even young kids now say, 'We will also go to space, we will also land on the moon and become space scientists.'"He also noted the increasing participation of students in the Inspire-Manak campaign, a government initiative to promote innovation at the school level."Five children are selected from every school who bring new ideas. So far, lakhs of children have become part of this initiative, and after Chandrayaan-3, the number has doubled," he said.He further highlighted India's expanding presence in the space sector through its growing startup ecosystem. "Just five years ago, India had fewer than 50 space startups. Today, that number has crossed 200," he said.In recognition of India's recent achievements in space exploration, the Prime Minister announced that August 23 will be celebrated as National Space Day.He encouraged citizens, especially students and space enthusiasts, to contribute ideas and suggestions on how to mark the occasion. These can be submitted via the NaMo App, the official mobile application associated with the Prime Minister.advertisement"We will talk about successes, achievement, in last few weeks, many things have happened in science, culture. Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla came back from space," PM Modi said, adding, "When Chandrayaan 3 was success, there was excitement in the country Space startups are increasing."He concluded his address by inviting public participation for National Space Day. "On August 23, there is National Space Day, you should send suggestions on Namo App," he said.- EndsMust Watch