Mars Mission hailed by leaders

NEW DELHI: India's maiden tryst with the Mars Mission was widely hailed today with leaders like President Pranab Mukherjee, Vice President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh describing it as a "historic achievement" and "significant milestone".

Congress President Sonia Gandhi, BJP's Prime Ministerial candidate Narendra Modi were also among a host of other dignitaries to congratulate the scientists for the successful launch of the 'Mangalyan' Mission by ISRO.

"This launch of India's first dedicated Mars Orbiter Spacecraft is a significant milestone in the progress of our space programme and space applications," Mukherjee said in his message to ISRO Chairman K Radhakrishnan.

"This day shall go down as a landmark in our space programme, a day which will inspire our scientists to make even greater strides in achieving our national goals in the field of space," he said.

Congratulating the scientists, Ansari said it is a matter of pride and joy for the entire nation.

"While this may be the first step in a long and difficult journey to the red planet, I am confident that our team of outstanding scientists and engineers will ensure a successful culmination of this complex mission.

"I once again extend my felicitations and best wishes to you and the entire team at ISRO on this commendable achievement and pray for the future success of the mission," he said.

Singh hailed the launch as a "historic achievement" and called up the ISRO Chairman to congratulate him and his team of scientists. He wished success to the mission.

"I congratulate all scientists of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) for the successful launch today of the Mars Orbiter mission, the most complex space mission of the country.

"The successful launch is the first step towards a successful mission and is testimony to ISRO's mastery of the launch vehicle technology."