Inspiring Interaction with ISRO Astronauts

Day Three of the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2026, organised under the aegis of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, commenced with great zeal and enthusiasm at Bharat Mandapam, and witnessed diverse events including an inspiring address by Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Manuskh Mandaviya, an engaging interactive session with ISRO Astronauts, and a cultural extravaganza showcasing the rich diversity of Bharat.

Addressing the young participants, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya congratulated them on being selected from among nearly 50 lakh youth across the country and noted that they had been sent by their respective Chief Ministers and Governors, reflecting the confidence reposed in them by the States and the nation. He highlighted that through VBYLD, the youth had been directly connected with the Government of India and would soon present their ideas before the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Emphasising that the Dialogue does not end with the event, he said that the journey to translating the vision of Viksit Bharat into reality starts now.

The day had begun with an inspiring Conversation with ISRO Astronauts and MY Bharat Volunteers, during which distinguished astronaut-designates Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla and Group Captain Prasanth Nair interacted with young leaders from across the country. Both officers are accomplished pilots of the Indian Air Force selected for India’s flagship Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission. The session provided a rare opportunity for participants to engage directly with India’s space pioneers and draw inspiration from their journeys, professionalism and vision for the nation’s future.

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla also visits and interacts with NCC cadets in NCC Republic Day Camp.(updated on 11th january 2026)