Punjab Newsline,National :
Axiom-4 Mission Marks Historic Milestone; Space Agriculture Experiments Inspire the Nation
Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has been awarded the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry honour, in recognition of his extraordinary courage, leadership and unwavering commitment to duty. The prestigious award was conferred by President Droupadi Murmu during the 77th Republic Day celebrations held at Kartavya Path.
Group Captain Shukla made history in 2025 by travelling to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission. With this achievement, he became the second Indian to travel to space after Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma. His mission is being hailed as a landmark moment for India’s growing presence in human space exploration.
During the challenging spaceflight, Shukla displayed exceptional bravery, swift decision-making and remarkable composure under extreme conditions. Despite the complex and high-risk environment of space, he ensured the successful completion of all mission objectives, earning widespread admiration from experts and fellow professionals alike.
While aboard the International Space Station, Group Captain Shukla conducted several critical research experiments. Among his most notable achievements was the successful cultivation of fenugreek and mung beans in space, marking a significant advancement in space-based agricultural research. Experts believe these experiments could play a crucial role in ensuring food sustainability during long-duration space missions in the future.
His professionalism, calm leadership and scientific contribution have been widely recognised as a source of pride for the Indian Air Force and the nation. His journey stands as a powerful inspiration for young Indians, reinforcing the belief that with determination, courage and inner strength, no goal is beyond reach.
Meanwhile, ahead of the 77th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu approved the conferment of gallantry awards on 70 Armed Forces personnel for displaying exceptional courage, devotion to duty and sacrifice in the defence of the nation. Six of these honours will be awarded posthumously.
The list of gallantry awards includes one Ashoka Chakra, three Kirti Chakras, 13 Shaurya Chakras (one posthumous), one Bar to Sena Medal (Gallantry), 44 Sena Medals (Gallantry) including five posthumous awards, six Nau Sena Medals (Gallantry), and two Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry).
Additionally, Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair will be conferred with the Kirti Chakra. A distinguished fighter test pilot, he is among the four astronauts selected for India’s first human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan. With over 3,000 flying hours to his credit, he also served as a backup crew member for the Axiom-4 mission and has been training in collaboration with ISRO under the Gaganyaan programme since 2019.