NewKerala.com

Key Points

Group Captain Prasanth Nair has called for expanding India's historic slogan to include scientists alongside soldiers and farmers. He emphasized that space achievements rest on strong foundations built by countless contributors across the nation. The Gaganyaan astronaut drew poetic parallels to Diwali celebrations while praising his fellow crew members. ISRO meanwhile confirmed significant progress with 80% of mission tests completed ahead of the first uncrewed launch.

Key Points: Gaganyaan Astronaut Prasanth Nair Adds Jai Vaigyanik to Historic Slogan

  • Astronaut proposes adding "Jai Vaigyanik" to honor India's scientific community
  • Highlights teamwork from ministers to citizens in space success
  • Compares Gaganyaan crew to Ram-Laxman dynamic during Diwali
  • ISRO confirms 80% of Gaganyaan mission tests completed successfully
3 min read

Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, but add to it, Jai Vaigyanik now: Group Captain Prasanth B Nair

Group Captain Prasanth Nair expands "Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan" to include scientists, celebrating India's space achievements and teamwork behind Gaganyaan mission.

"Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, but add to it, Jai Vaigyanik now. And also, why not? Jai Har Bharatiya. - Group Captain Prasanth B Nair"

New Delhi, August 21

Group Captain Prasanth B Nair, the designated astronaut for India's Gaganyaan mission shared reflections on the collective effort behind India's space ambitions and paid tribute to the nation's diverse contributors celebrating India's strides in space exploration.

He invoked the historic slogan "Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan" and proposed expanding it to "Jai Vaigyanik."

Speaking at press conference, Group Captain Nair emphased the importance of teamwork and acknowledging that achievements in space are built on a strong foundation.

Nair said, "The future is space and future technology. When we do all this, we should not forget the base on which all this has been made because we all, whichever field we are from, have contributed a lot. So I would like to reiterate what has been a slogan since, you know, days immemorial in this country. Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, but add to it, Jai Vaigyanik now. And also, why not? Jai Har Bharatiya."

Nair further highlighted the vital role of foundational support across all levels, from ministers to everyday citizens, in advancing India's space program.

"You are the reason we are here. We get to wear the cool suits and look good in front of the camera. But remember, the leaves will not blossom if the foundation is not strong. All of you sitting out here, right from the minister to the chairman, to all of you in every street, in every way, have been contributing to this programme. And I would like to thank the Prime Minister and the entire team for being with us throughout," he said

As the nation approaches Diwali, Group Captain Nair drew a poetic parallel, "A few months from now we are going to celebrate Diwali, a time when Shri Ram ji entered Ayodhya. Over here right now, to the Ram that is Shuks (Astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla), if I can call myself Laxman, it feels like there is Diwali here today when all our countrymen are here to receive us. But remember, even though I am elder to Shuks, I will love to be the Laxaman to this Ram any day, that's how professional he is."

Meanwhile, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chief V Narayanan provided an update on the progress of the Gaganyaan mission, India's ambitious human spaceflight project.

Describing the mission as "very technologically intensive" and "complex," Narayanan said that "80 per cent" of tests are completed.

"It is a very technologically intensive, complex mission. A lot of work is done, environment control and safety system, arbital module development, human-centric product development. I am happy to say that 80 per cent of tests are completed, and 20 per cent are targeted before March 2026," V Narayanan said.

Additionally, Narayanan announced that the first uncrewed mission, known as G-1, is expected to be launched later this year, possibly in December.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
His humility is so inspiring! Remembering that space achievements are built on the foundation of every Indian's contribution - from ministers to common citizens. This is what true leadership looks like.
R
Rohit P
The Diwali analogy gave me goosebumps! Comparing their return to Ram's arrival in Ayodhya is so poetic and meaningful. Can't wait to see our astronauts make history with Gaganyaan! 🚀
M
Michael C
As someone working in tech, I appreciate the recognition of scientists and engineers. Often we work behind the scenes, but it's heartening to see our contributions being celebrated at the national level.
S
Sarah B
While I admire the enthusiasm, I hope this mission gets adequate funding without compromising other essential sectors like education and healthcare. Balance is crucial for national development.
V
Vikram M
80% tests completed is impressive! ISRO has consistently delivered despite challenges. December launch for G-1 mission would be the perfect year-end gift for the nation. Jai Hind! 🙏
N
Nikhil C
Love how he emphasized teamwork over individual glory. That's the Indian way - collective progress over personal achievement. More young Indians should take inspiration from such role models.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50