Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited the ISRO Telemetry Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) in Bengaluru to congratulate the scientists behind the historic Chandrayaan-3 Moon mission. The Prime Minister was received by ISRO chief S.Somanath and other scientists, and he praised their achievement as one of the most inspiring moments of this era. He also stated that the entire world now recognizes India’s strength in the field of science and technology.
After attending the BRICS summit in South Africa and making a maiden visit to Greece, PM Modi arrived in Bengaluru to greet the scientists. Shortly after landing, he addressed a gathering before departing for ISTRAC. In his speech, he began with the slogan “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, Jai Vigyan, Jai Anusandhan” and expressed his enthusiasm for science. He also mentioned that he had decided to visit Bengaluru on his return to India to pay tribute to the scientists behind the success of Chandrayaan-3.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Governor Thawarchand Gehlot, and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar were not present with the Prime Minister on stage. PM Modi explained that he had requested the Karnataka leaders not to go through the trouble of waking up very early in the morning to receive him, as he did not know when he would arrive in Bengaluru.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi had described the ISRO scientists responsible for Chandrayaan-3’s success as “exceptional” and expressed his eagerness to interact with them. He wrote on social media ahead of his visit that he was looking forward to meeting with the ISRO scientists who had made India proud with their success.
On Wednesday, PM Modi virtually witnessed the successful lunar touchdown of the Chandrayaan-3 lander from Johannesburg, where he was attending the BRICS summit. During his visit to ISRO Telemetry Tracking & Command Network Mission Control Complex in Bengaluru, PM Modi highlighted the key role played by women scientists in Chandrayaan-3 and stated that this “Shivkshakti” point would inspire future generations to use science for the welfare of people.
The Chandrayaan-3 mission is a significant achievement for India and its space program. It is a testament to the dedication and passion of ISRO’s scientists, who have worked tirelessly to make this mission a success. The Prime Minister’s visit to ISTRAC and his words of praise and encouragement are a fitting recognition of their efforts.