CM Yogi said it is a matter of great pride that after four decades, an Indian citizen has once again had the opportunity to travel into space, and this honor has come to Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who was born and educated in Lucknow.
Following the successful completion of the Axiom-4 Mission and his safe return from the International Space Station, Shubhanshu Shukla was welcomed in Lucknow for the first time, which the CM described as a moment of joy for all.
He announced that the state government will launch a scholarship in Shukla’s name for students pursuing higher studies in space technology. The CM also felicitated him with a shawl and memento during a civic reception at Lok Bhawan, where a short film on his space journey was screened.
CM Yogi highlighted that Shukla, the first astronaut from Uttar Pradesh to be part of a space mission, has become an inspiration for youth. During his 18-day mission, he orbited Earth 320 times and conducted seven experiments designed by Indian scientists—marking the first time Indian researchers had the opportunity to test in microgravity.
The CM emphasized the growing importance of space science in tackling challenges such as climate change, floods, droughts, lightning disasters, agriculture cycles, and disaster management. He said that with proper use of space technology, farmers’ incomes can be increased, lives saved, and citizens provided with better quality of life.
Yogi Adityanath stressed that Uttar Pradesh now has more than a dozen institutions, including MMMUT Gorakhpur and AKTU, offering degree courses in space technology, a remarkable change compared to just a few years ago. He also underlined that Shukla’s success will open new doors for India in space research, while contributing to the vision of a developed India by 2047.
Deputy CMs Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, Science & Technology Minister Anil Kumar, ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan, and several other ministers and dignitaries also praised Shukla’s achievements, calling his mission a milestone in India’s space journey and a source of pride for both Uttar Pradesh and the nation.
In his address, Group Captain Shubhashu Shukla expressed gratitude for the grand welcome and shared insights from his mission. He said the enthusiasm among citizens and children for space research signals a golden era for India, with space playing a vital role in nation-building.