'Looking forward to see you in India': PM Modi writes to Sunita Williams ahead of her return

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has written a letter to Indian-origin NASA astronaut Sunita Williams, set to return to Earth after staying in space for over nine months. In the letter, PM Modi said 1.4 billion Indians have taken pride in her work and the country is praying for her good health and success in her mission.

The Prime Minister also invited her to India, adding it would be a pleasure for the country to host one of its most "illustrious daughters". Union Minister Jitendra Singh shared the letter written by the Prime Minister on X, formerly known as Twitter.

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PM Modi writes to Sunita Williams

Hailing Sunita Williams for her accolades and achievements, Modi revealed he inquired about the well-being of NASA astronaut whenever he met Joe Biden or Trump.

"I convey to you greetings from the people of India. At a programme today, I met the noted astronaut, Mr. Mike Massimino. During the course of our conversation, your name came up and we discussed how proud we are of you and your work. Following this interaction, I could not stop myself from writing to you," the letter read.


"1.4 billion Indians have always taken great pride in your achievements. Recent developments have yet again showcased your inspirational fortitude and perseverance. 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," the prime minister wrote in the letter.

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"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. I send my warm regards to Mr. Michael Williams," he added.

NASA's two stuck astronauts headed back to Earth with SpaceX on Tuesday to close out a dramatic marathon mission that began with a bungled Boeing test flight more than nine months ago.

Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams bid farewell to the International Space Station - their home since last spring - departing aboard a SpaceX capsule alongside two other astronauts. The capsule undocked in the wee hours and aimed for a splashdown off the Florida coast by early evening, weather permitting.