New Delhi: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, India’s trailblazing astronaut and Indian Air Force officer, has been conferred the Ashok Chakra, the nation’s highest peacetime gallantry award, by President Droupadi Murmu for his historic mission to the International Space Station (ISS).
Shukla was honoured for his exceptional courage, service, and scientific contribution during his 18-day stay in orbit, which generated crucial data for India’s first human spaceflight programme, Gaganyaan.
77th #RepublicDay🇮🇳 | Indian astronaut IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla conferred with India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, the Ashoka Chakra
(Source: DD) pic.twitter.com/Hhx0YuLKms
— ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2026
A Mission That Shaped India’s Human Spaceflight Future
Shubhanshu Shukla’s space mission marked a defining moment for India’s entry into human space exploration. During his time aboard the ISS, he conducted multiple microgravity experiments, physiological studies, and systems tests that are now being used to fine-tune life-support, navigation, and crew safety protocols for Gaganyaan.
Officials said the data collected has significantly strengthened India’s preparedness for long-duration human missions in space.
From Fighter Pilot to Space Pioneer
An accomplished test pilot and decorated Air Force officer, Shukla was selected as part of India’s elite astronaut corps after years of rigorous training in India and abroad. His journey from the cockpit to outer space represents a rare blend of military discipline, scientific excellence, and national service.
National Recognition
The Ashok Chakra citation hailed Shukla’s “extraordinary bravery, commitment to national service, and path-breaking contribution to India’s strategic space ambitions.”
President Murmu, while presenting the award at Rashtrapati Bhavan, said his achievement “inspires a new generation of Indians to dream beyond Earth and serve the nation with courage and dedication.”
A Symbol of New India
With Gaganyaan poised to place Indian astronauts in space under the national flag, Shubhanshu Shukla’s mission is being seen as a cornerstone of that ambition. His recognition with the Ashok Chakra underscores the strategic importance of space for India’s security, science, and global standing.
As India accelerates toward becoming a major space power, Shukla’s legacy will remain etched as a symbol of courage beyond the skies.
