Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently celebrated the achievements of Group Captains Shubhanshu Shukla, PB Nair, Ajit Krishnan, and Angad Pratap, who are integral to India’s upcoming Gaganyaan mission, during a ceremony in New Delhi. He emphasized that the Gaganyaan mission represents a “new chapter” in the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, showcasing India’s advancements in space exploration. Singh praised Shukla, who recently participated in the Axiom 4 mission, making him the first Indian to reach the International Space Station, and acknowledged his journey as an inspiration for the nation. Shukla shared his humble beginnings as a shy individual and his unexpected rise to becoming an astronaut, reflecting a narrative of perseverance and national pride. The Raksha Mantri highlighted India’s expanding role in space, asserting that the nation is prepared for future missions and that the technologies derived will benefit various sectors across the country. This initiative, he argued, is not merely technological but a testament to India’s commitment to global cooperation and human progress, encapsulated in the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family). In essence, the Gaganyaan mission underscores India’s significant strides in space, blending military, civilian, and scientific efforts, positioning the country as a formidable player on the global stage and further cementing its identity as a leader in space exploration and innovation.