A day before Indian-origin NASA astronaut Sunita Williams is expected to return to Earth from the International Space Station (ISS), Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written a heartfelt note to her.
“Even though you are thousands of miles away, you continue to remain close to our hearts. The people of India are praying for your good health and success in your mission,” the letter written by PM Narendra Modi which was shared by Union minister Jitendra Singh on micro-blogging website X read.
The letter further read, “I convey to you greetings from the people of India. At a programme today, I met the noted astronaut Mike Massimino. During the course of our conversation, your name came up and we discussed how proud we are of you and your work. Following this interaction, I could not stop myself from writing to you.”
“Over 1.4 billion Indians have always taken great pride in your achievements. Recent developments have yet again showcased your inspirational fortitude and perseverance,” PM Modi added.
PM Modi further said, “When I met President Trump or President Biden during my visits to the United States, I inquired about your well-being. 1.4 billion Indians have always taken great pride in your achievements. Recent developments have yet again showcased your inspirational fortitude and perseverance."
In reference to her parents he said, her mother, Bonnie Pandya, must be "keenly" awaiting her return. "I am sure that Late Deepakbhai's blessings are with you as well," the Prime Minister said.
PM Modi also invited her to India after her return, "After your return, we are looking forward to seeing you in India. It will be a pleasure for India to host one of its most illustrious daughters," he added.
As the whole world waits, with abated breath, for the safe return of Sunita Williams, this is how PM Sh @narendramodi expressed his concern for this daughter of India.
— Dr Jitendra Singh (@DrJitendraSingh) March 18, 2025
“Even though you are thousands of miles away, you remain close to our hearts,” says PM Sh Narendra Modi’s… pic.twitter.com/MpsEyxAOU9
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, who were stranded at the International Space Station (ISS) for the past nine months, have begun their journey to Earth. The undocking of the Crew-10 Mission's Dragon spacecraft was finally completed on Tuesday.
Crew 10 Dragon vehicle arriving! pic.twitter.com/3EZZyZW18b
— Don Pettit (@astro_Pettit) March 16, 2025
The Indian-origin astronaut and Wilmore along with another American astronaut Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov will touch down the coast of Florida at 3:27 am (IST) on March 19. Their entire journey will be around 17 hours.