Astronaut Shukla Inspires Students to Shape 'Viksit Bharat' through AI Innovation

As part of the AI Grind Challenge launch in Delhi, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to visit the International Space Station, delivered an inspiring message to students. Encouraging them to see themselves as the architects of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’, Shukla emphasized the transformative role that Artificial Intelligence (AI) can play in achieving this vision.

The Astronaut with a Vision

Shukla, who made headlines as the first Indian on an Axiom-4 mission to the ISS, shared his rich experiences from space. He underlined the crucial role of AI in space exploration, suggesting that the students’ engagement in AI will steer India towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.

“Every young mind here has the potential to contribute to this grand vision,” Shukla said, calling upon students to channel their creativity and passion into AI projects.

Government’s Commitment to AI & Education

Delhi’s Chief Minister Rekha Gupta echoed Shukla’s sentiments, stating that initiatives like the ‘AI Grind’ will not only modernize the education system but also position India as a leader in AI and technological advances under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership.

According to Gupta, this initiative aims to transform traditional classrooms into innovation-centric labs where students can design AI solutions to real-world challenges. Such futuristic learning environments are expected to directly benefit about five lakh students and pave the way towards a Viksit Bharat.

Building Foundations for the Future

The official statement revealed plans to extend AI learning benefits to over a thousand educational institutions in Delhi, fostering foundational AI capabilities among the youth. Education Minister Ashish Sood described the program as a cornerstone for “India’s AI Decade,” targeting areas such as transport, healthcare, digital education, and more.

A Call to Action

Over the next four months, this initiative intends to train 5,000 teachers as AI mentors, develop student-led prototypes, and produce a National Innovation Compendium of youth-created ideas. The AI Grind Challenge, open to participants aged 10 to 25, invites innovation in fields like climate change, public services, and tourism.

“Collaboration is key,” said Sood, urging the younger generation to work with government and industry partners in implementing practical solutions. Shukla’s words encapsulate this drive: “You are the future. Let’s work together to achieve Viksit Bharat 2047.”

As stated in Hindustan Times, such programs are vital for inspiring the next generation of innovators who will lead the country’s technological advancements.