Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a video conference on Saturday with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force, who is currently aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Shukla made history earlier this week as the first Indian to enter the ISS. This marks a significant milestone, being the first Indian in space in over 40 years, following Rakesh Sharma's mission in 1984.

During their conversation, PM Modi conveyed the nation's pride and well wishes to Shukla. He acknowledged Shukla's distance from India while noting his closeness to the hearts of all Indians. Modi also remarked on the auspicious nature of Shukla's name and how his journey signifies a new beginning for the nation's youth.

Shukla, in turn, expressed his gratitude and shared his initial experiences on the ISS. He described the unique perspective of Earth from space, noting that India appears "grand and bigger...than it does on the map". He also humorously mentioned the challenges of sleeping in space, stating that it "takes some time to get used to this". Shukla also shared the unique experience of witnessing sixteen sunrises and sunsets each day from orbit.

The Prime Minister inquired about Shukla's well-being and daily life on the ISS, even asking if he and the other astronauts had enjoyed the 'gajar ka halwa' (carrot dessert) that Shukla brought with him. Shukla confirmed that they enjoyed the dessert along with other sweets he carried.

Shukla also shared his insights on international collaboration in space, stating, "We all are part of humanity, and the Earth is our one home, and all of us are in it". He acknowledged the initial challenges of adjusting to the space environment, noting some initial heaviness in his head, but conveyed that these were minor issues.

The SpaceX Dragon capsule Grace, carrying Shukla and three other astronauts, successfully docked at the ISS over the North Atlantic Ocean. The mission, known as Axiom-4, launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Centre on June 25th. The journey to the ISS took approximately 28 hours. Upon arrival, the crew was greeted with warm welcomes and handshakes.

This mission underscores India's growing presence in space exploration and highlights the collaborative efforts of international space programs. Shukla's pioneering journey serves as an inspiration for future generations of Indian astronauts and scientists.