Republic Day 2026: IAF Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla Honoured with Ashoka Chakra

During the 77th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path, President Droupadi Murmu conferred the Ashoka Chakra on Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla . The honour, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award, recognised his extraordinary courage and service during a landmark space mission.

India’s Second Astronaut in Space

In 2025, Shukla made history by travelling to the International Space Station as part of the Axiom-4 mission. Following Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, he became only the second Indian to journey into space, marking a defining moment for the nation’s space ambitions.

Courage Beyond the Atmosphere

Shukla was honoured for his exceptional bravery, quick thinking and unwavering commitment under extreme conditions. Despite the challenges of space travel, he ensured the mission’s success through calm leadership and sharp decision-making.

Science and Farming in Space

During his stay aboard the ISS, Shukla carried out multiple research experiments. Notably, he successfully grew fenugreek and mung beans in space, advancing agricultural research and opening new possibilities for future long-duration missions.

An Inspiration for the Next Generation

Experts believe Shukla’s journey sends a powerful message to young Indians, that determination and inner strength can turn even the most ambitious dreams into reality. His achievement stands as a symbol of what disciplined training and resilience can accomplish.

Honour for the Air Force and the Nation

The Ashoka Chakra recognises not just individual excellence but also the pride of the Indian Air Force and the country. Shukla’s professionalism and dedication continue to inspire aspiring aviators and space enthusiasts alike.

Gallantry Awards Ahead of Republic Day

Ahead of Republic Day, President Murmu approved gallantry awards for 70 Armed Forces personnel for exceptional courage and sacrifice. Six of these honours will be conferred posthumously, underlining the cost of service to the nation.

Breakdown of the Awards

The list includes one Ashoka Chakra, three Kirti Chakras, 13 Shaurya Chakras, one Bar to Sena Medal (Gallantry), 44 Sena Medals, six Nau Sena Medals and two Vayu Sena Medals, recognising bravery across all three services.

Kirti Chakra for Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair

Among the awardees is Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair, who will receive the Kirti Chakra. A distinguished fighter test pilot with over 3,000 flying hours, he is one of the four astronauts selected for India’s first human spaceflight mission, Gaganyaan.

Nair also served as a backup crew member for the Axiom-4 mission and has been training with ISRO since 2019. Together, these honours reflect India’s growing confidence, courage and capability, on Earth and far beyond it.