Indian astronaut and Gaganyatri Shubhanshu Shukla on November 25 delivered a stirring call to India’s youth, urging them to imagine themselves as future moonwalkers as the country accelerates its ambitions in human space exploration.

Addressing students during an interactive session, the Indian Air Force Group Captain said the next 15 years would define India’s space destiny — and the next generation must be ready to lead it.

“Aim for the moon. Compete with me,” Shukla told the gathering, adding that he was eager to see whether the first Indian to step on the lunar surface would be a boy or a girl. “I’m still here. I’m not going anywhere. So you will have to compete with me.”

India’s new space age

Shukla said India was progressing steadily on Gaganyaan, the nation’s first human spaceflight programme, which aims to send astronauts into space and bring them back safely.

He said India was entering a “magnificent era” in its space journey, with plans for:

·        Bharatiya Antariksh Station, the country’s own space station currently under design and discussion

·        A human landing on the Moon by 2040, as outlined in India’s long-term space policy

·        Launching astronauts from Indian soil using indigenous launch vehicles and capsules

These milestones, he said, would transform India’s role in global space exploration and place the country firmly among the world’s leading spacefaring nations.

A call to the next generation

Shukla urged students to envision themselves not just as spectators but as participants in India’s unfolding space chapter.

“I am sure one of you could be the one who sets foot on the Moon,” he said, adding that the excitement and enthusiasm he saw among young people convinced him that India’s future in space was bright.

He reaffirmed his commitment to support and guide upcoming scientific initiatives as part of his role, emphasising that India’s long-term aspiration — becoming a fully developed nation under Viksit Bharat 2047 — would be shaped by today’s youth.

“This generation,” he reminded the students, “will carry India to its next milestones — from advanced space missions to national development.”