New Delhi (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written a heartfelt letter to NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, inviting her to visit India after her return to Earth following a nine-month stay at the International Space Station (ISS). Williams is expected to return early on Wednesday.
The letter, dated March 1, was delivered through former NASA astronaut Mike Massimino and was shared on X by Union Science and Technology Minister Jitendra Singh.
“Even though you are thousands of miles away, you continue to remain close to our hearts. The people of India are praying for your good health and success in your mission,” Modi wrote.
He expressed India’s eagerness to welcome Williams, calling her “one of India’s most illustrious daughters.” Modi fondly recalled his meeting with Williams and her late father, Deepak Pandya, during his 2016 US visit and mentioned his conversation with Massimino in New Delhi where Williams’ achievements were discussed with pride.
The prime minister highlighted that he had inquired about Williams’ well-being while meeting both former US Presidents Donald Trump and Joe Biden. He also noted that 1.4 billion Indians have always taken immense pride in their accomplishments.
Modi added that Williams’ mother, Bonnie Pandya, must be eagerly awaiting her return and expressed confidence that her late father’s blessings were with her. He also extended his warm regards to Williams’ husband, Michael Williams.