IAF Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Awarded Ashoka Chakra

India’s space and defence history marked a defining moment on Republic Day 2026 as Indian Air Force Group Captain and astronaut “Shubhanshu Shukla” was conferred the Ashoka Chakra, the nation’s highest peacetime gallantry award. The honour recognises his conspicuous bravery and exemplary courage during “Axiom Mission 4” to the International Space Station.

Gallantry in Space Operations

Group Captain Shukla served as the primary mission pilot of the Ax-4 mission, where he demonstrated exceptional composure and leadership during critical phases of orbital operations. Official citations noted that his actions under high-risk conditions ensured mission safety and success, meeting the stringent standards required for the Ashoka Chakra. The award places spaceflight bravery alongside traditional domains of military gallantry.

Historic First Indian on the ISS

Born in 1985 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Shubhanshu Shukla created history by becoming the first Indian to set foot on the “International Space Station”. His achievement came more than four decades after “Rakesh Sharma” became the first Indian in space in 1984. Shukla’s mission marked India’s return to human spaceflight on the global stage.

Axiom Mission 4 Crew and Objectives

Under Ax-4, Shukla flew alongside mission commander “Peggy Whitson”, Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland, and Tibor Kapu of Hungary. The mission focused on scientific experiments, technology demonstrations, and international collaboration aboard the ISS, reinforcing India’s growing role in commercial and cooperative space missions.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Ashoka Chakra is India’s highest peacetime gallantry award.
• Ax-4 is a private astronaut mission operated by Axiom Space.
• The ISS operates in Low Earth Orbit at around 400 km altitude.
• Rakesh Sharma was the first Indian in space in 1984.

Symbol of India’s Defence–Space Integration

Shubhanshu Shukla’s recognition underscores the expanding convergence of military aviation and space exploration. As an Indian Air Force test pilot turned astronaut, his journey reflects India’s evolving strategic capabilities beyond Earth. The Ashoka Chakra award not only honours individual courage but also signals national acknowledgement of the risks and responsibilities associated with human spaceflight in the modern era.