Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, an officer of the Indian Air Force, was awarded the Ashok Chakra on the eve of Republic Day 2026. He became the first astronaut to receive India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, recognising his extraordinary courage and skill during the Axiom Mission 4 to the International Space Station. Piloting the SpaceX Dragon “Grace,” Shukla marked India’s return to human spaceflight 41 years after Rakesh Sharma, carrying out complex operations in microgravity with precision and composure.
From Lucknow to the Stars
Born in Lucknow, Shukla joined the National Defence Academy at 17, inspired by the Kargil War and a passion for aviation. Commissioned into the IAF in 2006, he amassed over 2,000 flying hours on fighter jets including the Su-30MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29, Jaguar, and Hawk. Shukla later became a test pilot and earned a Master’s in Aerospace Engineering from IISc Bengaluru. His selection for the Gaganyaan programme in 2019 led to advanced astronaut training in Russia, NASA sessions, and extensive preparation for India’s human spaceflight missions.
Courage Beyond Earth
The Ashok Chakra recognised Shukla’s “conspicuous bravery” in piloting the Ax-4 mission, which launched on June 25, 2025. Over 18 days on the ISS, he conducted critical experiments in areas such as cardiovascular health, space anaemia, protein crystal growth, and materials science, contributing valuable data for the upcoming Gaganyaan crewed flight. His composure and expertise ensured mission success in an environment where even minor errors can have catastrophic consequences.
Contributions to India’s Space Programme
Shukla continues to play a key role in India’s human spaceflight initiatives, refining crew module safety, training future astronauts, and enhancing human-machine interfaces using lessons from the ISS. His achievements have earned him multiple accolades, including the Uttar Pradesh Gaurav Award 2026 and a formal Union Cabinet Resolution of Appreciation for his mission, described as a “watershed moment” in India’s space history.
A Source of National Pride
On Republic Day 2026, President Droupadi Murmu presented the Ashok Chakra to Shukla at the ceremonial parade in New Delhi, marking a moment of national pride. His journey from a young boy in Lucknow to a pioneering astronaut exemplifies courage, dedication, and the spirit of pushing human limits, inspiring millions of Indians to dream beyond earthly boundaries.
