Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, engaged with women scientists from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) during his recent visit to the agency. He lauded their instrumental roles in the ‘Chandrayaan-3’ initiative, which marked India’s triumphant debut lunar landing mission by successfully placing a lander on the unexplored lunar South Pole.
Addressing the scientists at ISRO’s Telemetry Tracking and Command Network Mission Control Complex in Bengaluru, PM Modi expressed his admiration, stating, “The contribution of women scientists to the success of Chandrayaan-3 is noteworthy. The site of the lander’s touchdown, named ‘Shivkshakti’, will serve as an inspiration for future generations to embrace science earnestly and apply it for the betterment of society. Our foremost commitment is to the welfare of our people.” His words resonated with applause from the attentive audience.
Congratulating the ISRO scientists for their historic feat in lunar exploration, PM Modi commended their exceptional achievement. “You, the ISRO scientists, have propelled our nation to unprecedented heights. This accomplishment is nothing short of extraordinary,” he declared.
In his address at ISRO’s Bengaluru headquarters, PM Modi underscored the significance of the mission, proclaiming, “This undertaking underscores the prowess of our space research and program. India has left its mark on the moon.” He proudly mentioned the placement of the national flag, emphasizing, “We have also unfurled our national emblem on the lunar surface.” The audience responded with enthusiastic applause.
Further praising the ISRO scientists, he added, “You have taken us where no one has ventured before. This embodies today’s India—a fearless, innovative nation that offers hope even from the moon’s unlit side.”
“The India of today is poised to provide solutions to the 21st century’s most pressing global challenges,” PM Modi asserted confidently.
Reflecting on the remarkable event, he recalled, “When our lander softly touched down on the lunar soil, it triggered jubilant celebrations not just here at ISRO, but across the nation and beyond. That moment is etched in memory.”
He shared his admiration for the lunar landing, stating, “Certain moments are forever etched in memory; the lunar landing was one such moment.”
Earlier on the day of his visit, PM Modi received a warm welcome upon arriving at the ISRO headquarters. He met with the team responsible for the nation’s third lunar mission, and a heartwarming image captured him embracing ISRO chief S Somanath.
Local residents, clutching flags and placards, lined the streets near the airport, demonstrating their enthusiasm to welcome the Prime Minister. As he landed at the HAL airport in Bengaluru, he reciprocated the cheers and support, chanting, “Jai Vigyan Jai Anusandhan” (Hail Science, Hail Research).