India is on the brink of a momentous milestone in its space journey, as the nation prepares to send one of its own into space next month. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced that Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force will fly to the International Space Station (ISS) in May 2025 as part of Axiom Space’s Ax-4 mission, marking the first time in over four decades that an Indian will travel to space. The last Indian to do so was Rakesh Sharma in 1984 — a moment still etched in the national memory.
This announcement came after a high-level review meeting of ISRO’s upcoming plans, where the Minister spoke of a new era unfolding for India’s space program. Group Captain Shukla, a decorated test pilot and a top contender for ISRO’s upcoming Gaganyaan mission, will not only represent India in space but will also gain invaluable experience in spaceflight operations. His mission isn’t just symbolic — it carries the weight of operational readiness, practical training, and deep international collaboration.
The journey to the ISS is a key strategic step for India, underscoring its resolve to emerge as a serious and capable participant in human space exploration. It reflects the growing collaboration between India and international space agencies, and highlights the country’s increasing engagement with private players in the global space ecosystem.
Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed confidence in India’s growing capabilities, noting that this mission aligns with the vision of a self-reliant and technologically advanced India. He emphasized that these missions are not merely scientific achievements, but steps toward a stronger, globally respected nation.
ISRO has been witnessing an inspiring flurry of developments. Recent months have seen successful technology demonstrations — including spacecraft docking, liquid engine testing, and the public release of data from the Aditya L1 solar mission. These efforts culminated in the historic 100th rocket launch from Sriharikota, and ISRO’s support for national events such as the Kumbh Mela through satellite-based services.
A packed schedule lies ahead. May through July will see the launch of the PSLV-C61 carrying the EOS-09 satellite with high-resolution radar imaging capabilities, a critical Gaganyaan Crew Escape System test mission with sea recovery operations, and the GSLV-F16 launch of the NASA-ISRO NISAR satellite for studying Earth’s ecosystems. The LVM3-M5 mission will also launch BlueBird Block-2 satellites for a U.S.-based commercial client — a sign of India’s growing role in the international space market.
At the heart of it all, Group Captain Shukla’s upcoming mission stands as a proud moment not just for ISRO or the Indian Air Force, but for every Indian. It’s a step forward filled with hope, ambition, and a quiet determination to reach for the stars — not just in dreams, but
in action.
