Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced a new scholarship named after astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian to visit the ISS, to support students pursuing space technology. Launched during a felicitation ceremony, the initiative highlights UP’s growing role in space education, with over a dozen institutions now offering relevant courses.
UP’s Tribute to Shubhanshu Shukla: A New Scholarship for Space Aspirants
On August 25, 2025, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced a groundbreaking scholarship named after Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, India’s first astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS) during the Axiom-4 mission. The announcement was made during a grand felicitation ceremony at Lok Bhavan in Lucknow, attended by Shukla, his family, and state dignitaries, including Deputy Chief Ministers Brajesh Pathak and Keshav Prasad Maurya. The scholarship aims to support students from Uttar Pradesh pursuing higher education in space technology, reflecting the state’s commitment to fostering innovation in this cutting-edge field.
Shubhanshu Shukla, a Lucknow native and Indian Air Force Group Captain, made history as the second Indian to travel to space, following Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission. His 18-day Axiom-4 mission, which concluded with his return to Earth on July 15, 2025, involved conducting over 60 scientific experiments in microgravity aboard the ISS. The mission, a collaboration between NASA, SpaceX, ISRO, and Axiom Space, marked a significant milestone for India’s space ambitions, particularly the upcoming Gaganyaan mission slated for 2027.
During the ceremony, CM Adityanath emphasized UP’s rapid strides in space education. “Four years ago, no university or institute in Uttar Pradesh offered courses in space technology. Today, over a dozen institutions provide degrees, diplomas, and certificates in this field,” he said, highlighting the state’s growing contribution to India’s development journey. The scholarship, named after Shukla, is designed to inspire and support young minds aspiring to advance their studies in space technology, nurturing talent for future space missions.
Shukla, addressing the audience, expressed gratitude for the honor and underscored the transformative potential of space research. “Microgravity offers immense possibilities for innovation. Experiments like the growth of microalgae in zero gravity could address global challenges like food security,” he said during an interaction with students at City Montessori School, his alma mater in Lucknow. He also urged the youth to pursue careers in space, emphasizing ISRO’s growing global prominence. “In the future, the world will speak of ISRO alongside NASA,” he added, encouraging students to aim for ISRO’s planned moon mission in 2040.
The scholarship initiative aligns with broader efforts to bolster India’s space and defense sectors. The state government has also directed the Science and Technology Department to leverage Shukla’s expertise to enhance space education and research in UP. Adityanath noted that space technology could play a critical role in disaster management, citing the use of satellites and remote sensing for early warning systems. This move comes as UP establishes itself as a hub for space and defense innovation, with the state’s defense industrial corridor fostering startups and indigenous technology development.
The announcement has been widely celebrated, with Shukla’s homecoming to Lucknow on August 25, 2025, marked by a rousing public reception. His journey, from a student at City Montessori School to an astronaut piloting the Dragon spacecraft, has inspired pride across the state and nation. The scholarship is expected to provide financial support and motivation for students, ensuring UP’s continued contribution to India’s space ambitions.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on reports from credible sources, including The Indian Express, NDTV, The Economic Times, Times of India, and other publications. Information has been cross-verified for accuracy, but readers are encouraged to consult official announcements for precise details.