Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a discussion with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, a pilot from the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). Shukla shared his experiences from his space journey. He presented PM Modi with the Axiom-4 mission patch and the Indian flag flown to the ISS. He also emphasized the global enthusiasm for India’s Gaganyaan mission. During the discussion, PM Modi asked about the challenges encountered in space. Shukla explained how the environment changes and how the body adapts, as well as the difficulties faced upon return to Earth.
Shukla discussed his cultivation of fenugreek and moth beans on the ISS, and the challenges related to food in space, specifically the need to maximize nutrition in minimal space. Shukla, the first Indian in a space station, shared that there was considerable excitement about the Gaganyaan mission internationally. Shukla highlighted that the Axiom-4 mission was well-prepared, viewing it as a starting point for future endeavors. PM Modi noted the importance of Shukla’s experience for the Gaganyaan mission. Shukla acknowledged the government’s support for the space program, with PM Modi emphasizing the importance of self-reliance.