New Delhi/Lucknow: As India prepares to celebrate its 77th Republic Day, astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is emerging as a prominent name, with defence sources indicating that he may be honoured with the Ashoka Chakra during this year’s Republic Day parade. Shukla made history as the second Indian to travel to the International Space Station (ISS).
In June 2025, Shukla reached the ISS as part of the Axiom-4 mission, spending nearly 18 days aboard the station while conducting critical microgravity experiments. Officials said the experience he gained is expected to play a key role in ISRO’s ambitious Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme.
Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla likely to be awarded Ashok Chakra on Republic Day#astronaut #shubhanshushukla #ashokchakra #republicday pic.twitter.com/WsM2C1FwNy
— Savera Times Haryana (@Savera_Haryana) January 25, 2026
Sources said Shukla is being considered for the honour in recognition of his bravery as an Indian Air Force officer and for bringing international recognition to India through his space mission.
Ahead of the Republic Day celebrations, Shukla was conferred with the “Uttar Pradesh Gaurav Samman” by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during Uttar Pradesh Day celebrations on January 24 in Lucknow. Speaking on the occasion, Shukla said he hoped his journey would inspire future generations.
The 2026 Republic Day celebrations are expected to be particularly significant, with European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen set to attend as chief guests. Special cultural presentations are planned to mark 150 years of “Vande Mataram,” and Shukla’s achievements may also be highlighted during the Indian Air Force’s aerial displays.
Serving the nation both as a fighter pilot and an astronaut, Shubhanshu Shukla’s potential Ashoka Chakra honour is being seen not only as recognition of individual excellence but also as a milestone for India’s growing stature in space exploration.