Posted On: 23 AUG 2023 6:46PM by PIB Delhi

My dear family members,

When we see such a history being made before our eyes, life becomes blessed. Such historical events become the eternal consciousness of a nation’s life. This moment is unforgettable. This moment is unprecedented. This moment is the victory cry of a developed India. This moment is the triumph of the new India. This moment is about crossing the ocean of difficulties. This moment is about walking on the path of victory. This moment holds the capability of 1.4 billion heartbeats. This moment signifies new energy, new belief, and new consciousness in India. This moment is the call of India’s ascending destiny. The first light of success in the dawn of the ‘Amrit Kaal’ has showered this year. We took a pledge on Earth, and we fulfilled it on the Moon. And our scientific colleagues also said, “India is now on the moon.” Today, we have witnessed the new flight of New India in space.

Friends,

I am currently in South Africa to participate in the BRICS Summit. However, like every countryman, my heart was also focussed on the Chandrayaan Mission. As a new history unfolds, every Indian is immersed in celebration, and festivities have begun in every household. From my heart, I am also connected with my fellow countrymen and my family members with enthusiasm. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Team Chandrayaan, ISRO, and all the scientists of the country who have worked tirelessly for years for this moment. I also congratulate 140 crore countrymen for this wonderful moment filled with enthusiasm, excitement, joy and emotion!

My family members,

Through the hard work and talent of our scientists, India has reached the South Pole of the Moon where no other country in the world has ever reached. From today onwards, the myths associated with the Moon will change, narratives will change, and even proverbs for the new generation will change. In India, we refer to the Earth as our mother and the Moon as our ‘Mama’ (maternal uncle). It used to be said that “Chanda Mama is quite far away.” Now a day will come when children will say, “Chanda Mama is just a ‘tour’ away.”

Friends,

On this joyous occasion, I would like to address all the people of the world, the people of every country, and region. India’s successful moon mission is not India’s alone. This is a year in which the world is witnessing India’s G-20 presidency. Our approach of ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’ is resonating across the globe. This human-centric approach that we represent has been welcomed universally. Our moon mission is also based on the same human-centric approach. Therefore, this success belongs to all of humanity. And it will help moon missions by other countries in the future. I am confident that all countries in the world, including those from the Global South, are capable of achieving such feats. We can all aspire for the moon and beyond.

My family members,

This achievement of the Chandrayaan Mission will propel India’s journey beyond the Moon’s orbit. We will test the limits of our solar system and continue working to realize the infinite possibilities of the universe for humanity. We have set many big and ambitious goals for the future. Soon, ISRO will launch the ‘Aditya L-1’ mission for in-depth study of the Sun. Following that, Venus is also on ISRO’s agenda. Through the Gaganyaan mission, the country is diligently preparing for its first human spaceflight mission. India is repeatedly proving that the sky is not the limit.

Friends,

Science and technology are the foundation of a bright future for our nation. Therefore, the country will remember this day forever. This day will inspire all of us to move towards a brighter future. This day will show us the path to fulfilling our resolutions. This day symbolizes how victory is achieved by taking lessons from defeat. Once again, heartfelt congratulations to all the scientists of the country and best wishes for future missions!

Thank you very much.