August 19, 2025: In a historic gesture celebrating India’s space achievements, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to travel to the International Space Station (ISS), handed over the Indian national flag he carried into space to Prime Minister Narendra Modi today. The meeting was held at the Prime Minister’s official residence in New Delhi.
Wearing his official ISRO astronaut jacket, Shukla presented the framed Tricolour to the Prime Minister, marking a symbolic connection between India’s space exploration and national pride. The flag had accompanied him during the Axiom-4 mission, which took place from June 25 to July 15, 2025.
Prime Minister Modi praised Shukla’s achievement, highlighting how the astronaut’s journey inspires millions across the country. “While serving on the ISS, you represented India with dedication and brought pride to every citizen,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of such milestones in motivating the next generation of scientists and explorers.
During his tenure on the ISS, Shukla worked alongside astronauts from the United States, Poland, and Hungary, conducting over sixty scientific experiments. These included research on human physiology in microgravity, space agriculture techniques, and innovative technologies that may contribute to India’s upcoming Gaganyaan mission.
The presentation of the Tricolour has captured public attention, with social media and news platforms highlighting the symbolic significance of the gesture. Citizens across India expressed admiration for Shukla’s accomplishment, viewing it as a testament to the country’s growing capabilities in space science.
Shukla’s mission, coupled with the ceremonial presentation of the national flag, demonstrates India’s commitment to international collaboration and advancement in space research. The successful completion of the Axiom-4 mission and the astronaut’s contributions further strengthen India’s presence in the global space community.
This historic moment serves as a source of national pride and a reminder of India’s ambitions in space exploration. As the country prepares for future missions, including the Gaganyaan project, Shukla’s journey will remain an enduring example of achievement and inspiration for generations to come.
