A powerful statement by Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian to visit the International Space Station, has found its place in a recently released Class 5 textbook by NCERT. The quote, which highlights the interconnectedness of the world, originates from a conversation between Group Captain Shukla and then Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Recounting his experience from space, Shukla stated, “It seems that no border exists, no state exists, no countries exist. We all are part of humanity, and the Earth is our one home, and all of us are in it.” The quote is featured in the ‘Earth, Our Shared Home’ chapter of the Environmental Studies book, ‘Our Wondrous World.’ Shukla’s mission to the ISS lasted 18 days and made him the first Indian in over four decades to journey to the orbital outpost. The textbook, designed for Grade 5 students, is part of the National Education Policy 2020 and integrates Science, Social Science, and Environmental Studies into a unified narrative. It also includes topics such as DIGIPIN, a digital address system, geographical journeys, and inspirational stories of national icons. The book promotes inquiry-led learning through various activities and encourages students to appreciate India’s diversity and the unity of the planet.
