PM Modi Showcases India's Achievements in Space, Science, and Innovation in 'Mann Ki Baat'

New Delhi – Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed pride in India’s growing accomplishments across space, science, sports, and culture, during the 124th episode of his monthly radio address, ‘Mann Ki Baat’.

PM Modi made special mention of Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, whose recent space mission stirred national pride and excitement.
"In the past few weeks, many events in sports, science, and culture have made every Indian proud. The return of Shubhanshu Shukla from space was one such moment. As soon as he landed safely, there was a wave of joy throughout the country. Every heart swelled with pride," the Prime Minister said.

Reflecting on the lasting impact of Chandrayaan-3's successful lunar landing in August 2023, he said it had sparked scientific curiosity, especially among children.
"I still remember how Chandrayaan-3 inspired even young kids. Today, children say, 'We will go to space, we will land on the moon, and become space scientists'," he added.

PM Modi highlighted the growing influence of the Inspire-Manak initiative, which fosters innovation among school students.
"Each school selects five students with original ideas. Lakhs of children have participated in the program so far, and after Chandrayaan-3, this number has doubled," he noted.

He also drew attention to the rapid growth of India's space-tech startup ecosystem.
"Five years ago, India had fewer than 50 space startups. Today, there are more than 200," he said.

In recognition of India's space milestones, the Prime Minister announced that August 23—the day Chandrayaan-3 landed on the Moon—will be observed as National Space Day, and invited citizens to share ideas for celebrating it.

He went on to commend Indian students for their recent success at the International Chemistry Olympiad, congratulating medalists Devesh Pankaj, Sandeep Kuchi, Debadatta Priyadarshi, and Ujjawal Kesari for making the nation proud.

PM Modi also celebrated India’s strong showing at the International Mathematical Olympiad, where Indian students earned three gold, two silver, and one bronze.

Looking ahead, he announced that Mumbai will host the Astronomy and Astrophysics Olympiad next month, with students from over 60 countries expected to participate.
"This will be the largest Olympiad of its kind to date. In a way, India is now advancing in both the Olympics and the Olympiads," he remarked.

With inputs from IANS