PM Modi Speaks to Shubhanshu Shukla Aboard Space Station
On June 28, 2025, a defining moment unfolded that bridged India and space, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke via video call with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla aboard the International Space Station (ISS). This call did more than connect Earth and orbit; it evoked powerful memories of a historic exchange between then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Rakesh Sharma, India’s first astronaut, during his 1984 mission aboard the Soviet Soyuz T-11.
Group Captain Shukla, a decorated officer in the Indian Air Force, is making headlines as the first Indian astronaut to reach the ISS and only the second Indian to journey into space. During the conversation, Shukla captured the emotion of the moment by stating, “The sky is never the limit—neither for you, nor for me, nor for India.”
Historic Parallels: Gandhi-Sharma and Modi-Shukla
This modern-day exchange between space and Earth naturally drew parallels to the iconic 1984 conversation when Rakesh Sharma was asked by Indira Gandhi what India looked like from space. His response, “Saare Jahaan Se Achha,” became legendary. Similarly, Modi’s exchange with Shukla rekindled a spirit of national pride, scientific pursuit, and human curiosity.
Prime Minister Modi emphasized how Shukla may be physically distant from Indian soil but remains emotionally close to the heart of every Indian. He described this achievement as a “Shubh Aarambh” or auspicious beginning, especially for India’s youth, who look to science and space with increasing enthusiasm.
A Multinational Crew and Collaborative Research Goals
Shukla is aboard the ISS as part of a broader mission involving an international crew. Alongside him are astronauts Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski from Poland, Peggy Whitson from the United States, and Tibor Kapu from Hungary. The mission is being coordinated by Axiom Space, a private space infrastructure developer based in Houston, Texas.
During his stay aboard the ISS, Shukla is tasked with conducting several research experiments developed by ISRO and Indian scientific institutions. These include studies on muscle degradation, cognitive performance in microgravity, and gastrointestinal health—experiments that could help improve long-duration spaceflight in the future and offer insights applicable to healthcare on Earth.
Axiom Mission and the Future of Space Habitation
Shukla’s journey is part of Axiom Mission 4, a significant milestone for commercial human spaceflight. Axiom Space has plans to build the world’s first commercial space station, which is intended to succeed the current ISS once it retires.
This mission not only strengthens India’s growing role in space exploration but also signals the emerging dominance of public-private partnerships in global space operations. It also highlights how space missions are increasingly collaborative, involving multiple countries, agencies, and commercial entities.
India’s Expanding Role in Global Space Missions
While this mission was facilitated by Axiom Space and not ISRO directly, it marks a critical evolution in India’s space journey. India, with its rapidly expanding space ambitions, has been steadily contributing to global efforts. The success of missions such as Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan has already cemented its position as a spacefaring nation.
The participation of an Indian astronaut on an international commercial platform signifies a shift in approach. It’s not only about launching indigenous missions but also about embedding Indian talent and research in global efforts. For the Indian scientific community, this collaboration opens doors to new experiments, more data, and advanced technologies.
The Scientific Vision: Human Research in Space
The research led by Shukla aboard the ISS is focused on understanding the effects of microgravity on the human body. Loss of muscle mass, slower cognitive response, and gut flora imbalances are well-known challenges of spaceflight.
These experiments are expected to yield valuable insights into maintaining astronaut health during long-term space missions, especially those aimed at Mars and beyond. Additionally, results from these experiments could contribute to medical advancements for muscle degeneration diseases, cognitive aging, and digestive disorders on Earth.
Symbolism and Emotional Impact on the Nation
For many Indians, the Modi-Shukla interaction is not merely a political or scientific event. It represents a renewal of national aspiration and the beginning of a new era. With Shukla addressing the nation from space, many experienced a shared emotional high—a collective moment of pride similar to the one created by Rakesh Sharma over four decades ago.
The event also highlights how the symbolism of space missions can go beyond technical achievements. They can instill national confidence, inspire young minds, and encourage public interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Global Cooperation in Modern Space Missions
Modern space exploration is fundamentally multinational. The diversity of astronauts aboard the ISS today is a testament to how space has become a domain of shared human interest, not confined to national agendas. Shukla’s inclusion in such a mission illustrates that India is seen as a reliable contributor to global science and technology endeavors.
From scientific diplomacy to shared infrastructure, the future of space will likely see even greater collaborations. This model fosters peace, innovation, and economic opportunities, while allowing countries to share risks and rewards in high-cost missions.
India’s Astronaut Training and Future Programs
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla underwent extensive training not just in India but also with international agencies, including NASA and SpaceX. His participation reflects the success of India’s strategic investments in astronaut training and aerospace development.
India’s own human spaceflight program, Gaganyaan, is expected to launch soon, with Indian astronauts being trained for completely indigenous missions. Shukla’s current mission paves the way for future Indian astronauts to become regular participants in both international and national missions.
Media, Legacy, and Public Reception
The broadcast of the space conversation between Modi and Shukla quickly became viral across Indian news channels and social media. Many Indians shared nostalgic reactions comparing this call to the Gandhi-Sharma exchange, while others noted how far India has come in terms of technology and global partnerships.
Media outlets hailed the mission as a watershed moment in India’s space journey, and educational institutions across the country hosted live streams and discussion sessions to commemorate the achievement.
A Nation United by Aspirations, Not Limits
The Modi-Shukla video call from space stands as more than just a historic exchange. It encapsulates India’s relentless pursuit of innovation, its commitment to science, and its collaborative spirit in a globalized world.
As India eyes deeper ventures into space—including potential lunar bases, Mars expeditions, and space stations—the foundation being laid today by pioneers like Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as stepping stones for generations to come. The message is clear: for a nation driven by dreams, the sky is never the limit.
