- Space Missions Earn National Honor
- Republic Day Recognition Announced
- A New Chapter in Gallantry
Article Today, New Delhi:
India has extended its highest peacetime gallantry honors to astronauts, marking a significant moment in the country’s space and defence history. As the nation prepares to celebrate the 77th Republic Day, the Union government has recognised those who carried the Tricolour beyond Earth, signalling that courage in space now stands alongside bravery on land, sea, and air.
Ashoka Chakra for Shukla
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has been awarded the Ashoka Chakra, the country’s highest peacetime gallantry honour. He became the first Indian to travel to the International Space Station during the Axiom-4 mission in June 2025. Spending 18 days in orbit, he emerged as the second Indian to enter space after Rakesh Sharma. A fighter pilot with over 2,000 flying hours, the Lucknow-born officer is now seen as a symbol of India’s expanding presence in human spaceflight.
Kirti Chakra for Prashanth Nair
Meanwhile, Group Captain Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair has been conferred the Kirti Chakra, the second-highest peacetime gallantry award. He serves as the backup pilot for the same mission and plays a critical role in preparations for India’s ambitious Gaganyaan programme. Hailing from Kerala, he has undergone rigorous training and has been consistently involved in strategic planning for future crewed missions.
Science Beyond Symbolism
In addition, Mr. Shukla’s mission went beyond symbolic achievement. During his stay aboard the space station, he conducted more than 60 scientific experiments. These focused on human physiology in microgravity and possibilities for space-based agriculture. Conducted jointly by ISRO and NASA, the mission showcased India’s growing scientific capability nearly four decades after its first human spaceflight.
Recognition for Women Officers
The honours list also includes two women officers of the Indian Navy. Lieutenant Commanders Dilna K. and Roopa A. have been awarded the Shaurya Chakra for completing the Navika Sagar Parikrama-2 expedition. They circumnavigated the globe over eight months, covering 21,600 nautical miles. Their achievement highlights the expanding role of women in challenging operational missions.
Republic Day Honors
Therefore, the 77th Republic Day celebrations will see gallantry awards presented to 70 armed forces personnel. The list includes one Ashoka Chakra, three Kirti Chakras, and 13 Shaurya Chakras. Six awards have been announced posthumously. President Droupadi Murmu will formally confer the honours in recognition of exceptional courage during peacetime.
A Broader Message
The government’s decision reflects a broader understanding of national service. By honouring astronauts alongside soldiers and sailors, India has underscored that bravery now extends to the frontiers of space. The recognition affirms that exploration, science, and national pride are deeply interconnected in the country’s evolving strategic vision.
