Date: June 28, 2025
Location: International Space Station (ISS) and New Delhi
🚀 A Historic Dialogue
For the first time in over four decades, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a live video call with an Indian astronaut aboard the ISS. The conversation with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, part of the Axiom-4 mission, rekindles national pride reminiscent of Rakesh Sharma’s famed 1984 interaction.
🗣️ Heartfelt Exchanges & Inspiring Messages
- National Pride Rising
Modi praised Shukla, saying: “You may be the furthest from the motherland, but you remain closest to the hearts of 140 crore Indians.” - Unity Beyond Borders
Shukla shared: “From space, one cannot see borders—there are no visible boundaries… India appears truly grand.” - Lighthearted Moments
Their chat even included a fun moment about gajar ka halwa floating in zero gravity, bringing laughter and relatability.
🎯 Mission & Message for the Future
PM Modi emphasized:
- This mission as the “first chapter” toward India’s own Gaganyaan space flight and future space station.
- The conversation as symbolic of nation’s scientific aspirations: “The sky is never the limit…”.
Shukla expressed gratitude, attributing this mission to inspired youth under India’s leadership.
📡 Science, Spirituality, and Zero-G Living
- Shukla revealed he’s conducting seven Indian-designed experiments focusing on areas like stem cell research—benefiting sectors such as agriculture and healthcare.
- He reflected on his 16 daily sunrises & sunsets at ~28,000 km/h, and the challenge of zero-G living (“had to strap his feet”).
- He also noted how mindfulness and spirituality help maintain mental balance aboard the station.
🌍 Why This Moment Matters
| Significance | Details |
|---|---|
| Space Diplomacy | India’s presence on ISS via Axiom-4 boosts global recognition and ISRO–NASA collaboration. |
| Youth Inspiration | Modi called this mission a springboard for budding scientists and future astronauts. |
| National Identity in Orbit | By planting the Indian flag in space, the mission symbolizes pride, unity, and scientific progress. |
âś… Final Takeaway
The Modi–Shukla conversation symbolizes a turning point in India’s space journey—merging national pride with scientific ambition. It signals a renewed push for Gaganyaan, domestic space stations, and perhaps an Indian lunar landing. With heartwarming human moments and deep technical exchanges, this exchange shows India’s space narrative entering an exciting new chapter.
