Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Parliament is set to hold a special discussion on India’s human spaceflight achievements following the successful mission of Indian Air Force (IAF) Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who became the second Indian to travel to space. The debate will highlight India’s space journey and its roadmap towards becoming a space leader by 2047.
Grand Welcome and Special Discussion
Shubhanshu Shukla returned to New Delhi in July after completing a two-week mission aboard the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission. His arrival was marked by a warm reception at the Indira Gandhi International Airport by Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Union Minister Jitendra Singh, and cheering citizens. Following this, the Lok Sabha scheduled a debate on “India’s first astronaut aboard the ISS – critical role of space programme for Viksit Bharat by 2047.” This session, besides celebrating Shukla’s feat, is expected to break political deadlock in Parliament by uniting members around the nation’s space progress.
India’s Growing Space Aspirations
Shukla’s mission marks India’s return to human space exploration after four decades, joining Poland and Hungary in the Ax-4 mission. His contributions are seen as vital for India’s upcoming Gaganyaan mission and the long-term goal of setting up the Bharatiya Antariksh Station. President Droupadi Murmu, in her Independence Day address, hailed Shukla’s achievement as an inspiration for future generations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also praised him, linking the accomplishment with India’s broader push for an “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” in space technology.
Strategic Importance of the Mission
The Department of Space described Shukla’s journey as “strategically important,” underscoring India’s intent to emerge as a serious player in human spaceflight. The mission has brought valuable learnings that will shape India’s independent space station program. Leaders across the political spectrum, including the President and Prime Minister, emphasized that this milestone signals India’s resolve to achieve greater heights in scientific and technological advancement.
