Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to Engage with Students in Thiruvananthapuram
Synopsis
Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian to visit the ISS, is set to inspire students in Thiruvananthapuram on March 28 with a motivational talk about India's space advancements.
Key Takeaways
Shubhanshu Shukla is the first Indian astronaut to reach the ISS .
He will engage with 500 students in Thiruvananthapuram .
The event is scheduled for March 28 at 4 PM .
Shukla's journey highlights India's space ambitions .
He received the Ashoka Chakra for his distinguished service.
Thiruvananthapuram, March 26 (NationPress) The city of Thiruvananthapuram is gearing up for a significant scientific event as astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, recognized as the first Indian to journey to the International Space Station (ISS), will be visiting on March 28.
Shukla will be welcomed in Kerala by Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar and is expected to engage with a select group of students at Lok Bhavan.
A key feature of his visit will be a talk centered around the theme, 'India Advancing in Space, India Gaining Strength: A Youth Pathway to a Developed Nation'.
Scheduled for 4 PM, this event will host 500 chosen students, providing a unique chance for young individuals to interact directly with one of India’s leading figures in space exploration.
Originating from Uttar Pradesh, Shukla serves as a Group Captain in the Indian Air Force and is an astronaut with the Indian Space Research Organisation. After being commissioned into the Air Force, he has piloted various fighter jets and later transitioned to a test pilot role, accumulating significant aviation experience before joining India’s human spaceflight initiative.
In 2019, he was one of four astronauts selected for India’s ambitious Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission.
On July 2025, Shukla made history as the first Indian to arrive at the ISS during Axiom Mission 4.
He is recognized as the second Indian in space, following Rakesh Sharma, who undertook his journey in 1984.
His exemplary service earned him the Ashoka Chakra in 2026, which is India’s highest military honor during peacetime.
This visit aims to motivate students and highlight the increasing aspirations of India in space exploration, emphasizing the critical role of youth in steering the nation towards development.
Since Arlekar assumed office, he has transformed Lok Bhavan into a hub of activity, regularly convening meetings with diverse groups and winning hearts with his approachable demeanor.
Point of View
Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla's visit to Thiruvananthapuram represents a critical moment in India's space narrative. His interactions with young minds emphasize the importance of youth in national development and the potential of India in the global space arena.
NationPress
10 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Shubhanshu Shukla?
Shubhanshu Shukla is the first Indian astronaut to visit the International Space Station, serving as a Group Captain in the Indian Air Force.
What is the purpose of Shukla's visit?
His visit aims to engage with students and inspire them about India's advancements in space exploration.
When is the event taking place?
The event is scheduled for March 28 at 4 PM.
How many students will participate?
Approximately 500 selected students will participate in the event.
What is the significance of the talk's theme?
The theme emphasizes the role of youth in advancing India's journey towards becoming a developed nation through space exploration.
