Delhi, India | August 17, 2025 —(Shubhanshu Shukla Returns), India’s astronaut trainee, returned to the country on Friday after completing a year-long training program in the United States for the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). His homecoming was met with a warm and grand reception at the airport.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, and ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan were present to greet Shukla. The event showcased the nation’s pride in Shukla’s achievements and highlighted India’s growing footprint in space exploration.
Shukla spent the past year undergoing rigorous training in the US to prepare for his mission aboard Axiom-4, which will focus on scientific experiments and collaborative research aboard the ISS. Officials noted that his training included simulations, zero-gravity exercises, and technical mastery of spacecraft systems.
During the welcome ceremony, Shukla expressed gratitude to the government, ISRO, and his mentors for their guidance and support. He also shared his excitement about applying the knowledge and experience gained overseas to strengthen India’s space missions.
The Indian government lauded Shukla’s dedication and emphasized that his achievements are a testament to the nation’s commitment to advancing space research and technology. ISRO has hinted that his training will pave the way for future astronauts and missions as India continues to expand its human spaceflight program.
With Shukla’s return, India moves closer to enhancing its presence in international space initiatives, inspiring a new generation of scientists, engineers, and aspiring astronauts.
