Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla addressed incoming undergraduate students at Bennett University's Deeksharambh 2026 ceremony on Aug. 12 [1].
The appearance by the Indian Air Force astronaut highlights India's efforts to integrate space exploration achievements into academic mentorship for the next generation.
Speaking as the chief guest in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh, Shukla recounted his experiences during the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station [2]. He urged the freshers to maintain resilience in the face of academic and personal challenges. "Embrace failure, trust preparation, and contribute to India's ambitious space exploration goals," Shukla said [3].
The ceremony serves as the formal induction for the class of 2026. A university spokesperson said the institution was honored to have Shukla as the chief guest and noted that his experiences would motivate students to dream big [4].
Shukla's engagement with students follows a broader effort to document and share his journey in space. In an interview published July 5 [2], he discussed his book, "The Second Orbit." He said the book seeks to share his journey and inspire people across the country to explore the wonders of space [2].
Throughout the address, Shukla emphasized the importance of rigorous preparation. He linked the discipline required for spaceflight to the academic rigor expected of the new students—encouraging them to view their education as a foundation for contributing to national goals in science and technology [2].
“"Embrace failure, trust preparation, and contribute to India's ambitious space exploration goals."”
The integration of active 'gaganyatris' into university settings signals a strategic push by India to foster a domestic pipeline of aerospace talent. By leveraging the visibility of the Axiom-4 mission, the state aims to transition space exploration from a government-led achievement to a broader cultural and academic aspiration.
