Shukla’s journey is expected to inspire a new generation of Indian scientists, engineers, and explorers.

In a historic moment for India’s space ambitions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday interacted with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force, who is currently stationed aboard the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 Mission.

Group Captain Shukla has earned the distinction of becoming the first Indian to set foot on the ISS, marking a significant milestone in India’s growing footprint in human space exploration.

The interaction took place via video conferencing, with the Prime Minister expressing the nation's pride in Shukla’s accomplishments and congratulating him on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians.

“You are not just representing the Indian Air Force, but the entire nation up there,” PM Modi told Shukla. “Your presence aboard the ISS is a testament to the strength of our space program and the capabilities of our scientists and defense personnel.”

The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) shared highlights of the conversation through social media, stating: “PM @narendramodi interacted with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who is aboard the International Space Station.”

Shukla is participating in the Axiom-4 mission, a multinational private-public collaboration, and is playing a crucial role in conducting microgravity experiments and advancing scientific research in space.

The interaction is being seen as a symbol of India’s advancing space agenda under the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) vision. With ISRO’s Gaganyaan mission in the pipeline and Indian astronauts preparing for future space flights, Shukla’s journey is expected to inspire a new generation of Indian scientists, engineers, and explorers.

Shukla, speaking from the ISS, expressed gratitude to the people of India and the government for their support and emphasized the importance of international collaboration in the field of space science.

The conversation also highlighted India’s growing cooperation with international space agencies and private players, and underscored the nation’s commitment to becoming a key player in the global space economy.

This landmark moment is being celebrated across the country, especially within the scientific and defense communities, as a proud stride toward realizing India’s space ambitions.