Subhanshu Shukla Becomes First Indian Astronaut To Be Awarded Ashok Chakra

On this special report, the focus is on Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla, who has made history as the first Indian astronaut to receive the Ashok Chakra, India's highest peacetime gallantry award. Speaking about his experience on the International Space Station (ISS) during the Axiom 4 mission, Shukla stated, 'Today in 2025, the Indian flag reached the International Space Station for the first time.' He shared insights into the challenges of microgravity, describing the ISS as equivalent to a 6 BHK house where the mind must switch from a 2D to a 3D concept of space. The bulletin also notes that President Draupadi Murmu awarded 70 others on the eve of Republic Day, including Colonel Sophia Qureshi, who received the Vishisht Seva Medal for her role in Operation Sindoor. The programme highlights India's growing stature as a spacefaring economy and the significance of these honours for the armed forces and future space missions like Gaganyaan.