India’s first human spaceflight program, Gaganyaan, has been years in the making. Announced in 2018, the mission is being developed by ISRO with the goal of sending Indian astronauts — known as vyomnauts — into low-Earth orbit on an Indian-built spacecraft.
The project involves an orbital module made up of two parts: a crew module to carry astronauts and a service module to provide power and propulsion. The spacecraft will be launched on a modified GSLV Mk III rocket, now renamed LVM3. Initial plans aimed for a 2022 launch to coincide with India’s 75th year of independence, but delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the need for extensive safety testing pushed the timeline forward. Current schedules indicate an uncrewed test in 2024–25, followed by a crewed mission later in the decade (isro.gov.in).
Safety has been the main concern. ISRO has already tested systems such as the crew escape mechanism, parachute recovery, and re-entry procedures. A series of test flights are planned before astronauts are cleared for space. The Indian Air Force has also been training the shortlisted astronauts, with support from Russia’s space agency Roscosmos, in the early stages.
The cost of the program is estimated at around ₹9,000 crore. Supporters say it will place India among the select nations capable of human spaceflight, alongside the U.S., Russia, and China. Critics point to the expense and argue that resources could be directed toward unmanned missions and pressing domestic needs.
For ISRO, Gaganyaan represents both prestige and capability. If successful, it will not only mark India’s entry into human spaceflight but also open doors for longer-term projects, including a potential space station in the 2030s.
A special broadcast reviews Prime Minister Narendra Modi's journey as he turns 76, marking 25 years in public life and his tenure as India's longest-serving elected Prime Minister. The report highlights India's economic ascent from the tenth to the fifth largest economy, structural reforms including the Goods and Services Tax, digital public infrastructure under the JAM trinity, and expansion in manufacturing through Production Linked Incentive schemes. Key welfare programs, such as the PM Awas Yojana, Jal Jeevan Mission, and Direct Benefit Transfer mechanism, are detailed alongside rapid infrastructural growth spanning Vande Bharat trains, national highways, and aviation under the UDAN scheme. The bulletin examines India's foreign policy approach, space milestones including Chandrayaan and Gaganyaan, and traditional service-oriented birthday initiatives, culminating in the launch of healthcare programs in Dhar, Madhya Pradesh. Global leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, extended birthday greetings commending India's rising international profile.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked his 76th birthday, completing 25 years in public life as an elected leader. Taking office as Prime Minister in May 2014 after serving as Gujarat Chief Minister, his administration oversaw significant economic and policy transformations. India's economy expanded from tenth to fifth largest globally, supported by initiatives including the Goods and Services Tax, the JAM trinity, Unified Payments Interface, and production-linked incentives. Social welfare delivery expanded through direct benefit transfers alongside schemes such as PM Awas Yojana, Jal Jeevan Mission, Swachh Bharat Mission, and Ayushman Bharat. In infrastructure, the government rolled out Vande Bharat trains, expanded airports under the UDAN scheme, and developed the PM GatiShakti platform. On foreign policy, India hosted the G20 presidency, advanced space exploration through the Chandrayaan and Gaganyaan missions, and deepened ties across the Global South. Entering his third term, the administration addresses domestic coalition management, youth employment, and global trade dynamics while pursuing the Viksit Bharat framework.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi turned 76, marking 25 years in public life and his tenure as the longest-serving elected prime minister. From his 2014 victory where the BJP secured 282 seats and the NDA won 336 seats, Modi pledged the Gujarat development model for the country under the vision of 'Bharat ki vijay. Achhe din aane wale hain.' Over his tenure, India expanded from the tenth to the fifth largest global economy. Significant policy reforms include the Goods and Services Tax, the JAM trinity, UPI, and the PM Jan Dhan Yojana bringing over 50 crore citizens into formal banking. Welfare initiatives like PM Awas Yojana, Jal Jeevan Mission, Swachh Bharat Mission, and Ayushman Bharat alongside infrastructure drives like PM Gati Shakti, UDAN, and Vande Bharat trains spurred modernisation. Internationally, India showcased vaccine diplomacy, hosted the G20 presidency, and engaged at BRICS. Advances in space research include Chandrayaan and preparations for Gaganyaan with astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla.
A special broadcast reviews the multifaceted bilateral relationship between India and Russia, emphasizing strategic cooperation across defense, energy, space, and diplomacy. The discussion highlights key defense platforms underpinning ties, including BrahMos, Sukhoi aircraft, and S-400 anti-missile systems, alongside long-term projects such as the Kudankulam nuclear plant, Sakhalin-1, and the Gaganyaan space mission. Examining bilateral trade bolstered by discounted energy supplies, the analysis notes how India balances its partnerships amid Western scrutiny. Looking ahead to high-level diplomatic engagements at the SCO summit, the conversation outlines major anticipated discussion points, including the global energy crisis, shifting United States foreign policy dynamics, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, and broader regional stability across Central Asia and Afghanistan. Additionally, the dialogue addresses diplomatic prospects regarding potential bilateral and informal leadership interactions involving India, Russia, and China ahead of the BRICS summit.
Ahead of the upcoming monsoon session of Parliament, a political debate has emerged over the proposed delimitation and women's reservation bills.
This news broadcast covers the launch of India's first hydrogen-powered passenger train operating between Jind and Sonipat in Haryana.
Addressing the Indian diaspora in Paris, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that India is emerging as a trusted partner to the world.
In this episode of Tech Today, we dive deep into the biggest stories that are shaping the future of technology, from the new space race to the latest consumer hardware! BIG TECH STORY: The Artemis II Deep Dive We go behind the scenes of the successful moon mission to explore the massive tech upgrade since Apollo. Discover the secrets of the new "Glass Cockpit," the world's first Deep Space Laser Internet (260 Mbps), AI-driven Optical Navigation, and the surprising role of the iPhone 17 Pro Max in space. Plus, how all this influences India’s Gaganyaan mission. TECH REVIEW: OnePlus Nord 6: Is this a mid-range phone or a cheat code? We review the Nord 6 with its 9000mAh power-bank battery, 165Hz display, and Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chipset. Does it blur the line between flagship and budget? TECH & YOU: Smart Toothbrush: Are electric toothbrushes worth the ₹10,000+ price tag? We test the Oral-B iO Series 9 to see how features like the real-time pressure sensor and AI-powered 3D tracking can teach you to brush better, backed by science. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more tech deep dives!
Indian space icons Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma and Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla, alongside cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, united to advocate for climate action and environmental sustainability.
In an exclusive conversation with India Today, India’s first cosmonaut, Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, and India's first astronaut to go to the ISS, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla shared their unique perspectives on environmental sustainability from space.
On this Special Report, the focus is on Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who has made history as the first Indian astronaut to receive the Ashoka Chakra, India's highest peacetime gallantry award. Speaking about his historic journey, Shukla stated, 'Today in 2025, the Indian flag reached the International Space Station for the first time.' The Indian Air Force officer was recognised for his exemplary courage and leadership during the 18-day Axiom 4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). The programme also highlights the 70 other gallantry award recipients honoured by the President on the eve of Republic Day, including Colonel Sofia Qureshi, who received the Vishishta Seva Medal for her role in Operation Zindur. Shukla shared insights into the challenges of space travel and the powerful message of India's growing presence in space exploration, describing the experience as 'out of this world' while inspiring future generations of Indians.
On this Special Report, India Today’s Preeti Choudhry anchors the live coverage of India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations from Kartavya Path. The bulletin highlights the historic decoration of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, a key member of the Gaganyaan mission, marking a significant milestone for India’s space-faring ambitions. Preeti Choudhry notes, 'It basically tells us where we want to be, where India wants to be in the committee of space-faring nations.' The programme also discusses the announcement of 131 Padma Awards for 2026, including a posthumous honour for actor Dharmendra. Joining the conversation, Lieutenant General Sanjay Kulkarni reflects on the pride and rigorous selection process for regiments marching in the parade. The discussion underscores the evolution of India’s military technology and the symbolic importance of gallantry award winners leading the contingents, showcasing the nation's 'brains and brawn' on the global stage.
On this Special Report, host Preeti Choudhry reviews the landmark celebrations of India’s 77th Republic Day at Kartavya Path. The bulletin highlights the presence of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa as chief guests, signaling a strengthening of India-EU ties ahead of a major trade deal. Preeti Choudhry notes that the display showcased 'Atmanirbhar Bharat in full flow,' emphasizing India's technological leap in indigenous weaponry and space exploration. The discussion features experts Vice Admiral Shekhar Sinha, Air Marshal Sanjeev Kapoor, and Sandeep Unnithan, who analyze the success of the IACCS air defence network and the impact of Operation Sindoor in 2025. The programme also celebrates the recognition of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, highlighting space as the new frontier for India’s youth. The broadcast concludes with the Prime Minister’s traditional walk to acknowledge the crowds, marking 77 years of the Republic and 150 years of Vande Mataram.
Anchor Preeti Choudhry leads the coverage of India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations from Kartavya Path, marking the first parade since the execution of Operation Sindoor. The event showcases India’s military strength and technological sovereignty, featuring a phased battle display, the S-400 air defence system, and the debut of indigenous hypersonic missiles. The aerial flypast includes the Operation Sindoor formation with Rafale and Sukhoi-30 jets. European Commission Chief Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa attend as chief guests, highlighting geopolitical ties and ongoing India-EU trade negotiations. The broadcast includes analysis from Sandeep Unnithan and military veterans on defense self-reliance and the Gaganyaan mission, specifically recognizing astronaut Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla. Reports from Srinagar’s Lal Chowk and Chandigarh document nationwide celebrations, while Bill Gates acknowledges India's digital infrastructure and AI innovations. This bulletin captures the transition of India into a global geo-economic power, emphasizing the spirit of Vixit Bharat and the nation's commitment to its constitutional values.
On this Special Report, the focus is on the 77th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path, New Delhi. The programme highlights the prestigious awarding of the Ashoka Chakra to Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla, following his historic space mission. The broadcast captures the 'showering of flower petals by the Indian Air Force helicopters' as the parade commenced under clear blue skies. Special attention is given to the presence of the Chief Guest, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, whose attire was noted for reflecting Indian craftsmanship. The bulletin also honours living Param Vir Chakra winners, including Bana Singh and heroes of the Kargil War, who took the salute. The discussion emphasizes that while the Ashoka Chakra and Param Vir Chakra are presented on Kartavya Path, other gallantry awards are conferred at the Rashtrapati Bhavan investiture ceremony. The report reflects on the motivation and recognition provided by these national honours to the men in boots serving the country.
On this India Today special report, anchor Anjali Istwal covers India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path. The 2026 parade, themed '150 years of Vande Mataram,' features European Union leaders Ursula von der Leyen and Antonio Costa as chief guests. The broadcast highlights India’s military strength following 'Operation Sindoor,' a May 2025 counteroffensive against Pakistan. Key displays include the S-400 missile systems, Rafale jets, and the Army’s animal contingent. A Swiss think tank report confirms India’s aerial supremacy during the conflict, leading to a forced ceasefire. The bulletin also details the 'Mother of All Deals' trade agreement with the EU and the 2026 Padma Awards. Notable honors include the Ashok Chakra for astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian on the International Space Station, and posthumous Padma Vibhushan awards for Dharmendra and V.S. Achuthanandan. Security updates report foiled infiltration bids in Samba and terror encounters in Doda and Kishtwar, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivers his 'Viksit Bharat' message.
On this special report, the focus is on Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla, who has made history as the first Indian astronaut to receive the Ashok Chakra, India's highest peacetime gallantry award. Speaking about his experience on the International Space Station (ISS) during the Axiom 4 mission, Shukla stated, 'Today in 2025, the Indian flag reached the International Space Station for the first time.' He shared insights into the challenges of microgravity, describing the ISS as equivalent to a 6 BHK house where the mind must switch from a 2D to a 3D concept of space. The bulletin also notes that President Draupadi Murmu awarded 70 others on the eve of Republic Day, including Colonel Sophia Qureshi, who received the Vishisht Seva Medal for her role in Operation Sindoor. The programme highlights India's growing stature as a spacefaring economy and the significance of these honours for the armed forces and future space missions like Gaganyaan.
Speaking on India Today podcast UnPolitics, Nasa astronaut Sunita Williams reflects on her 27-year career and recent retirement announcement during a broadcast from a literature festival in India. Williams addressed media speculation regarding her health during her extended stay on the International Space Station, clarifying that she returned in good health despite the physical challenges of zero gravity.
India's space programme marks a major milestone with the first launch of 2026, as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully sends the PSLV-C62 rocket into orbit from Sriharikota. This mission represents a significant comeback for the PSLV, described as ISRO's 'trusted workhorse', following an aborted mission in 2025. The primary payload is Anvesha, a powerful surveillance satellite designed to track troop movements, terrain changes, and crop patterns with high precision. The broadcast captures the 'majestic lift off', calling it a 'roaring 2026 comeback for the hero PSLV rocket, reaffirming India's rising space dominance'. The launch also includes several other smaller satellites, making it a 'desi-videshi combo space launch' and showcasing India's growing capabilities in space exploration and satellite deployment.
India's space programme begins 2026 with a significant milestone as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launches its PSLV-C62 mission. This launch represents a 'Desi-Videshi combo,' carrying both Indian and international payloads. The primary payload is the 'Anvesha' satellite, described in the report as 'India's hawk eye in the space, a powerful surveillance satellite tracking troop movement, terrain changes, and crop patterns with pinpoint accuracy.' The launch, which took place at 10:18 am, marks a roaring comeback for the PSLV rocket, reaffirming its status as ISRO's trusted workhorse. The bulletin highlights the PSLV's legacy, noting its crucial role in historic missions like Chandrayaan-1, the Mars Orbiter Mission, and the Aditya-L1 solar mission, reinforcing India's growing dominance in space exploration.
