Republic Day 2026: Indian Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla Conferred Ashoka Chakra

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On Republic Day 2026, Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla received the Ashoka Chakra, India's highest peacetime gallantry award, at a ceremony on Kartavya Path in New Delhi. President Droupadi Murmu presented the award, recognising Shukla's exceptional contributions to India's space and defence efforts.

Shukla's recognition marks a rare and symbolic moment in India's awards history. He became the first Indian astronaut to be awarded the Ashoka Chakra, and only the second Indian to visit space since Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma in 1984.

The award was approved by the President on the eve of Republic Day as part of gallantry honours for 70 armed forces personnel, spanning Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra, Shaurya Chakra and other distinguished decorations.

A Journey Beyond Earth

In June 2025, Shukla made history by becoming the first Indian to step onto the International Space Station (ISS) during the Axiom-4 mission. The 18-day trip, done with NASA, the European Space Agency and Axiom Space, was a major milestone for India's human spaceflight journey-coming more than 40 years after India's first manned mission.

As the mission pilot, Shukla carried out difficult space operations and conducted scientific experiments in microgravity. These tasks required high technical skill, calmness, and quick decision-making in extreme conditions. His work is seen as an important step forward for India's future space goals, including the homegrown Gaganyaan mission.

Recognition of Courage and Commitment

Conventionally, the Ashoka Chakra is bestowed to individuals who display "most conspicuous bravery" during peacetime, and it ranks as India's second highest civilian gallantry award after the Param Vir Chakra.

Shukla's award both recognises his bravery and outstanding professionalism during the ISS mission and also pushes the idea of serving the nation beyond the traditional land, sea, and air roles to include India's growing presence in space.

In addition to his space achievements, Shukla is a decorated Indian Air Force fighter pilot with extensive flying experience across platforms such as the Su-30 MKI, MiG-21, MiG-29 and Jaguar, further underscoring his multifaceted career in service to the nation.

National Impact and Future Horizons

Shukla's achievements have been praised by people across politics and science. Many say his Ashoka Chakra will inspire young Indians who dream of careers in science, aviation, or space. His award also shows how important space exploration is becoming for India as it moves ahead in technology and global cooperation.

Besides Shukla, another IAF officer, Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, was also awarded the Kirti Chakra in recognition of his contribution to India's astronaut cadre, including his role as the backup crew for the Axiom mission.

Shukla's honour at Republic Day 2026 bridges India's proud legacy in human spaceflight with a future that looks equally poised on earth and in orbit, a tribute to courage, curiosity and the country's journey into the final frontier.