New Delhi, Jan 11 (PTI) – Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla recently spoke at the National Cadet Corps’ (NCC) Republic Day Camp. He emphasized the power of dreams and encouraged young people to pursue their ambitions, whether in space exploration or other fields.
Shukla, a group captain with the Indian Air Force (IAF), inspired the cadets by reminding them that failures don’t define them. He quoted a line from the movie “Finding Nemo,” telling the youth to “keep swimming” through life’s challenges.
During his visit, he shared his hopes for the young generation, especially as India aims to become a developed nation by 2047. Shukla made headlines last year after completing an 18-day mission on the International Space Station (ISS), marking a significant moment for India’s space program.
The first Indian in space, Rakesh Sharma, flew in 1984, and it took 41 years for another Indian to follow. Shukla noted the growing interest among youth in space and big dreams. “It’s exciting to see the enthusiasm,” he said.
He urged the cadets to take ownership of India’s aspirations, like the goal of sending the first Indian to the Moon by 2040. “It’s our collective responsibility to make these dreams come true,” he affirmed.
Looking ahead, India plans to establish the Bharatiya Antariksha Station by 2035. Shukla believes that if everyone works together passionately, the vision of a vibrant, developed India could be achieved even sooner than 2047.
His journey was particularly special as his spacecraft launched from the same site used by Neil Armstrong during the historic Moon landing in 1969. This connection to history adds depth to his mission, showing how far India has come in space exploration.
Shukla’s message resonates with the growing trend of youth involvement in science and technology. Recent surveys suggest that young people today feel empowered and more inclined to pursue careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields, reflecting a shift in societal values.
This collective ambition highlights a hopeful future for India and echoes the sentiments of many young people eager to contribute to national and global advancements.
