Archive · 26 Jan 2026
IAF's Shubhanshu Shukla awarded Ashok Chakra for ISS mission
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla from the Indian Air Force went to the International Space Station (ISS) in June 2025.
He was part of the Axiom-4 crew and spent 18 days in space.
During his time there, he did important experiments that will help future Indian astronauts.
Because of his bravery and hard work, he was awarded the Ashok Chakra, which is India's highest award for bravery in peacetime.
This is a big deal because he is the first Indian to go to the ISS and only the second Indian to go to space.
His journey shows how India is becoming a strong player in space exploration.
The award was approved by President Droupadi Murmu on January 25, 2026, and conferred on January 26, 2026, during the Republic Day celebrations.
His backup crew, Group Captain Prasanth B Nair, was also awarded the Kirti Chakra.
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force was awarded the Ashok Chakra for his mission to the ISS.
He became the first Indian in space and the first to board the ISS as part of the Axiom-4 crew in June 2025.
Shukla conducted microgravity experiments that are crucial for future Gaganyaan missions.
His mission involved international collaboration with NASA and other global partners.
Shukla's success has bolstered India's reputation in the global space race and inspired the next generation of explorers.
- Who
- Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, Indian Air Force
- What
- Awarded the Ashok Chakra for his mission to the International Space Station (ISS)
- When
- Award approved on January 25, 2026, conferred on January 26, 2026
- Where
- International Space Station (ISS) and Republic Day celebrations on Kartavya Path, New Delhi
- Why
- For his bravery and significant contributions to space exploration and India's reputation in the global space race
- Name
- Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla
- Organization
- Indian Air Force
- Mission
- Axiom-4
- Duration
- 18 days
- Location
- International Space Station (ISS)
- Year
- 2025
- Award
- Ashok Chakra
- Significance
- First Indian to board ISS, second Indian in space
- Award Date
- January 25, 2026
- Backup Crew
- Group Captain Prasanth B Nair
- Backup Crew Award
- Kirti Chakra
- Birthdate
- October 10, 1985
- Birthplace
- Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
- Flight Experience
- 2,000 hours on various aircraft
Sources
IAF Shubhanshu Shukla’s 18 Day mission could earn him the Nation’s highest Peacetime Gallantry Award
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IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla awarded Ashoka Chakra
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