In a moment of national pride and historic significance, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force (IAF) has piloted the #Axiom4Mission, marking India’s return to space after 41 years. The mission rekindles memories of Squadron Leader Rakesh Sharma, India’s first astronaut, and heralds a new chapter in the country’s human spaceflight journey.

The Indian Air Force, in a tweet, captured the emotion of the moment: "From conquering the skies to touching the stars — a journey powered by the indomitable spirit of the IAF Air Warrior. Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla sets forth on a landmark Space Mission, carrying the pride of the nation beyond Earth. This is a déjà-vu moment for India, 41 years after the mission of Sqn Ldr Rakesh Sharma, who first carried our Tricolour beyond Earth. Being more than a mission, it is a reaffirmation of India’s ever-expanding horizon."

Speaking after the launch, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh said, "India's ascent to the pedestal of Viksit Bharat has started via space."

He added, "It is indeed the vindication of the founding fathers of India's space program, Vikram Sarabhai and Satish Dhawan. It is so that this vindication of our founding fathers had to happen under the leadership of PM Modi. India is no longer a follower but an equal partner in all our collaborations. Shubhanshu Shukla is possibly the most crucial member of this mission as he performs seven crucial experiments designed by Indian institutes. These will be of vital importance to all agencies across the world."

The emotional resonance of the moment extended to Shukla’s family in Lucknow. His father, Shambhu Dayal Shukla, said, “We are happy.”

His mother, Asha Shukla, added, “Everyone is happy. These are tears of joy...”

In a message from space, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla addressed the nation: "Namaskar, my dear countrymen! What a ride! We are back in the space once again after 41 years. It's an amazing ride. We are revolving around the Earth at a speed of 7.5 kilometres per second. The Tiranga embossed on my shoulders tells me that I am with all of you. This journey of mine is not a beginning to the International Space Station (ISS) but to India's Human Space Programme. I want all of you to be part of this journey. Your chest, too, should swell with pride... Together, let's initiate India's Human Space Programme. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!"

The launch of Axiom-4, piloted by Shukla, signals not just a mission but a movement — a bold reaffirmation of India’s rising role in global space exploration.