Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to Receive Ashoka Chakra for Historic Space Mission

• IAF Group Captain and astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will be awarded the Ashoka Chakra, India's highest peacetime gallantry award.
• Shukla made history on June 26, 2025, becoming the first Indian astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS) via SpaceX's Dragon spacecraft.
• His 18-day space mission followed Rakesh Sharma's 1984 flight, making Shukla the second Indian to travel to space.
• A decorated fighter pilot, Shukla boasts 2,000 flight hours on various aircraft, including Su-30 MKI and MiG-21.
• The Ashoka Chakra recognizes his exceptional courage, selfless service, and contribution, highlighting the space sector's importance.

Why It Matters: Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will receive the Ashoka Chakra for his historic ISS mission and exemplary service.