From Lucknow to Low Earth Orbit: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla Becomes First Indian Astronaut to Receive Ashok Chakra
In a historic recognition of courage beyond conventional battlefields, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has been awarded the Ashok Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry honour. The award was approved by President Droupadi Murmu on the eve of Republic Day 2026, making Shukla the first Indian astronaut to receive the prestigious decoration.
The honour marks a defining moment in India’s space and defence history, celebrating a rare blend of military discipline, scientific excellence, and extraordinary bravery in space. Shukla’s achievement places him in an elite category of national heroes whose courage has extended beyond Earth’s atmosphere.
His recognition also comes four decades after India’s first space hero, Rakesh Sharma, received the Ashok Chakra in 1985, bridging a 41-year gap in India’s human spaceflight legacy.
From a Young Dreamer in Lucknow to Space Pioneer
Born and raised in Lucknow, Shubhanshu Shukla’s journey began at the age of 17, when he applied to the National Defence Academy without informing his parents, inspired by the Kargil War and an Indian Air Force airshow.
He joined the IAF in 2006 as a fighter pilot and went on to log over 2,000 flying hours on frontline aircraft, including the Su-30MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29, Jaguar, and Hawk. Over the years, he emerged as a skilled test pilot and combat leader.
Shukla later pursued a Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering from the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, strengthening his technical expertise. In 2019, he was selected by ISRO for the ambitious Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme and underwent advanced training in Russia, the United States, and India.
He was eventually shortlisted as one of the four final astronaut candidates for India’s first manned space mission.
Why Shubhanshu Shukla Was Awarded the Ashok Chakra
Traditionally conferred for acts of bravery in life-threatening situations, the Ashok Chakra was awarded to Shukla for his exceptional courage during Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) to the International Space Station.
In June 2025, he piloted SpaceX’s Dragon spacecraft “Grace” to the ISS, becoming the first Indian astronaut to visit the station since 1984. The mission involved complex orbital manoeuvres, precision docking, and high-risk operations in microgravity.
As ISRO’s sole representative aboard the multinational mission, Shukla demonstrated outstanding composure and leadership during critical phases of the flight. Officials cited his “conspicuous bravery” and “exemplary courage” in managing high-stakes operations in an unforgiving environment.
One minor error during the mission could have resulted in catastrophic consequences, making his performance a remarkable example of courage under pressure.
Scientific Contributions in Orbit
During his 18-day stay aboard the ISS, Shukla led seven major Indian research experiments. These included studies on space anaemia, cardiovascular health in microgravity, material solidification, protein crystal growth for pharmaceuticals, and life-support systems.
The data gathered from these experiments is expected to play a crucial role in preparing for India’s Gaganyaan mission, scheduled for 2027. The programme aims to place three Indian astronauts in low-Earth orbit for an independent human spaceflight mission.
After returning safely in July 2025, Shukla shared his experiences with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior scientific leaders, highlighting the mission’s importance for India’s technological future.
Shukla’s Role in India’s Space Future
Currently, Shukla is actively involved in strengthening India’s human spaceflight capabilities. He is working on crew module safety, test vehicle abort missions, and advanced training modules for future astronauts.
Drawing from his ISS experience, he is helping improve human-machine interfaces and emergency response systems. His work is seen as critical to ensuring the success of India’s first indigenous crewed mission.
As one of the leading figures in Gaganyaan, Shukla is expected to play a central role in shaping India’s long-term presence in space.
Our Thoughts
Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s Ashok Chakra is more than a personal honour. It symbolises India’s expanding definition of bravery in the 21st century, where courage is displayed not only on borders but also in space.
His journey reflects the nation’s growing confidence in science, defence, and innovation. By recognising space missions as acts of national service, India has sent a powerful message about its priorities for the future.
Shukla’s story will inspire young Indians to dream beyond limitations and reminds the country that leadership, discipline, and courage remain timeless values — whether on land, in the air, or in orbit.