3 Things Indian in space after 40 years, high drug costs, and Mumbai train accident
Jun 10, 2025
In this insightful discussion, Amitabh Sinha from The Indian Express dives into Shubhanshu Shukla's groundbreaking journey to space on Axiom Mission 4, marking a significant milestone for India. Anonna Dutt sheds light on the staggering costs of rare disease medications, highlighting the need for compulsory licensing as patients seek justice. Additionally, the conversation touches upon the tragic Mumbai train accident that claimed lives, prompting urgent calls for improved safety measures to protect commuters.
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India's Renewed Space Presence
- Shubhanshu Shukla joins Axiom Mission 4 as the first Indian to visit the ISS and second Indian in space after 40 years.
- His mission is part of growing private-public partnerships in space enhancing India's presence and experience.
ISRO's Experiments in Space
- The mission includes 10 ISRO-designed experiments, mainly on biology focusing on zero gravity effects on plants and organisms.
- These insights will help advance understanding of muscle degeneration and natural growth separate from Earth's gravity.
Shift to Indigenous Space Program
- India lacked a self-reliant human space program for decades, limiting progress beyond Rakesh Sharma's historic mission.
- Shukla's mission is directly linked to India’s upcoming human spaceflight plans like Gaganyaan and lunar missions.