India's Giant Leap: Rajnath Singh Celebrates First Indian on ISS

In a landmark meeting held on August 21, 2025, in New Delhi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Singh lauded Shukla's monumental achievement, calling it a key milestone in India's human spaceflight aspirations.

During the meeting, Rajnath Singh stated his delight in discussing Shukla's inspiring space journey and the scientific experiments conducted aboard the ISS. The conversation also touched upon India's advanced space missions, including the #Gaganyaan project. Singh expressed confidence that Shukla's pioneering journey would motivate Indian youth to explore careers in science and space.

Highlighting the critical role played by the Indian Air Force (IAF) in India's space endeavors, Singh praised the IAF's professionalism during astronaut selection and mission support. He pointed out the synergy between ISRO, IAF, and national stakeholders, crucial for India's progress in space exploration. Shukla, during a recent press conference, emphasized the importance of the insights gained from his space mission for India's ambitious projects, including Gaganyaan and the proposed Bharatiya Antariksh Station.

(With inputs from agencies.)