‘Welcome Back’: Adityanath, Mayawati hail Shukla’s return after historic space mission Political leaders in Uttar Pradesh congratulated Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla on on his successful return to Earth after completing the Axiom-4 mission, calling it a moment of pride for the country and an inspiration for youngsters. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath led the tributes, calling Shukla’s achievement “a glorious symbol of courage, dedication and commitment to science”. “Welcome back to Earth! Heartfelt congratulations to Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and his team on the successful completion of the historic #AxiomMission4,” Mr. Adityanath said in a post on X. “Every Indian, especially the people of Uttar Pradesh, is proud today. India awaits your return with great excitement,” he added. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president Mayawati also extended her congratulations, saying, “The news of India’s Shubhanshu Shukla returning safely after conducting several studies in space is not only encouraging for youth but also uplifting for the entire nation. Heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Shukla, originally from Lucknow, his family, and all space scientists and institutions behind this success. Such experiences will certainly benefit crores of people in the country.” - PTI