Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written a letter to NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, extending his best wishes for her safe return from the International Space Station. He also conveyed similar wishes to her fellow astronaut, Barry Butch Wilmore.
In the letter, the prime minister said: "1.4 billion Indians have always taken great pride in your achievements. Recent developments have yet again showcased your inspirational fortitude and perseverance."
Williams and Wilmore will begin their journey back to Earth on Tuesday after spending over nine months aboard the International Space Station, far longer than originally planned.
Modi has also invited Williams to visit India after her return. The letter, written on March 1, was sent through former NASA astronaut Mike Massimino and later shared on X by Union Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh.
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.
“Even though you are thousands of miles away, you remain close to our hearts,” says PM Sh Narendra Modi's… pic.twitter.com/MpsEyxAOU9A few days ago, Modi met Massimino at an event and personally requested that the letter be delivered to Williams on behalf of the people of India.
In his heartfelt message, Modi reaffirmed India's deep bond with Williams, saying: "Even though you are thousands of miles away, you remain close to our hearts."
.@NASA will provide live coverage of Crew-9's return to Earth from the @Space_Station, beginning with @SpaceX Dragon hatch closure preparations at 10:45pm ET Monday, March 17.
Splashdown is slated for approximately 5:57pm Tuesday, March 18: https://t.co/yABLg20tKX pic.twitter.com/alujSplsHmIn his letter, Modi shared that the people of India are praying for your good health and success in your mission. "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," the prime minister said.
Modi recalled meeting Williams and her late father Deepak Pandya during his 2016 visit to the US. He also said Williams' mother Bonnie Pandya must be keenly awaiting her return and he was sure that 'Deepakbhai's' blessings were with her as well. He further sent his best wishes to Williams' husband Michael Williams.
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