'The Moon, Our National Pride, Now Bears the Footsteps of India'- PM Modi 

BENGALURU: In a heartwarming display of appreciation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met the scientists at the ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) command center in Bengaluru on Saturday morning. Arriving from his trip to Greece at 7:30 am, the Prime Minister interacted with the dedicated minds behind the Chandrayaan-3 mission, conveying his gratitude for their efforts.

Upon his arrival, ISRO Chief S.Somanath welcomed PM Modi with a bouque. The Prime Minister embraced and patted Somnath on the back. The Prime Minister took a moment to commend the success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission and expressed his deep emotions while addressing the scientists present.

Prime Minister Modi said, "While I was in South Africa and later in Greece, my thoughts were consistently with you. At times, I feel that I might not do justice to your dedication. My impatience is mine, but it's you who face the challenges. I wanted to bow to you, to salute your hard work, your patience, your efforts and passion."

Making major announcements, PM Modi further declared that the area on the moon where Chandrayaan-3 touched down would be called "Shivashakti". Additionally, he designated the location of Chandrayaan-2 as the "Tricolor Point," and proclaimed August 23 as "National Space Day," to be celebrated annually.

PM Modi expressed his gratitude and proud at the remarkable achievement of taking India to new heights in space exploration. He hailed the nation's successful endeavors on the lunar surface, stating, "The moon, our national pride, now bears the footsteps of India. We ventured where none had ventured before, achieved what was thought impossible. This is the India of courage, the India that thinks innovatively and stands as a beacon of light even in the darkest of times."

He added, "In the 21st century, India will rise to address the world's greatest problems. The moment of August 23 replays in my mind, the touchdown confirmation, the celebration across the country. That moment is etched in history as one of the most inspiring of this century."