New Delhi, Aug 18 (UNI) With the Opposition abstaining from a special prliamentary discussion, senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor took the opportunity to express national pride over Commander Shubhanshu Shukla’s recent mission to the International Space Station (ISS), calling it a landmark moment in India’s space journey.
In a series of posts, Tharoor said, “Since the Opposition are not participating in the special discussion, let me say how proud all Indians are of the recent mission of Commander Shubhanshu Shukla to the International Space Station (ISS). It served as a stepping stone to our nation’s own human spaceflight program, Gaganyaan. Shukla’s mission provided ISRO invaluable hands-on experience and data that cannot be replicated in simulations”.
Commander Shukla’s time aboard the ISS involved a range of critical activities, including monitoring spacecraft systems, undergoing the psychological and physiological effects of micro-gravity and participating in scientific experiments. These contributions, Tharoor noted, are instrumental in refining life-support systems and medical protocols for future Indian astronauts.
“From plant growth studies to human health research in space, the mission offered scientific validation that directly aids the design and development of technologies required for Gaganyaan,” the Thiruvananthapuram MP said.
He said, “Shukla’s mission, conducted in partnership with international agencies, reinforced India’s role in global space diplomacy. It demonstrates India’s willingness and capability to engage in multilateral space efforts and opens doors for future joint research and investment”.
Beyond the technical and diplomatic gains, Tharoor underscored the symbolic impact of Shukla’s mission.
“Commander Shukla’s historic flight serves as a powerful symbol of India’s ambitions in human spaceflight. It has captured the nation’s imagination, inspiring a new generation to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, maths and space studies — all essential for sustaining India’s long-term space goals. Well done!,” Tharoor added.
