Shubhanshu to ISS, Delhi Awaits Monsoon

New Delhi: June 25, 2025, marks a significant day in Indian history from the skies above to the clouds rolling in. In a proud moment for the nation, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, a distinguished Indian Air Force officer, is all set to become the second Indian to journey into space, 41 years after Rakesh Sharma orbited Earth in 1984.

On Tuesday, NASA officially announced that Shubhanshu will lift off aboard the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). The launch is scheduled for Wednesday and will carry Shukla into orbit for a historic mission, signaling India’s deepening involvement in global space exploration. Meanwhile, on the ground, monsoon winds are knocking at Delhi’s door. While the southwest monsoon has already covered most of India, including 16 states such as Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh all of which are experiencing  heavy rainfall Delhi is expected to receive its first monsoon showers by Wednesday evening. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued advisories for potential flash floods in certain regions.

In political developments, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has once again sparked discussion by referring to the 1975 Emergency as Congress’s era of injustice.  Speaking on the 50th anniversary of the Emergency declaration by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, Shah called it a  dark period of democracy and said the BJP will observe the day as Constitution Murder Day across the country. The statement has drawn strong reactions across the political spectrum, reigniting debates around the legacy of the Emergency and the state of civil liberties in present day India.

June 25 stands out as a day of contrasts  scientific advancement, seasonal change, and political reflection. While India proudly prepares to watch one of its own touch the stars, it also grapples with the weight of its democratic past and the rhythm of monsoon’s arrival.