Welcome Back, Earth Missed You: PM Modi Shares Picture With Sunita Williams

Prime Minister Modi welcomed Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams back to Earth after her extended space stay, praising her grit and inspiring millions with her unwavering determination.

Picture shared by PM Modi on X.

Source : Twitter - Narendra Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday posted a message on X (formerly Twitter) and welcomed Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams to Earth, after her extended stay in the space. 

He wrote, "Welcome back, #Crew9! The Earth missed you. Theirs has been a test of grit, courage and the boundless human spirit. Sunita Williams and the #Crew9 astronauts have once again shown us what perseverance truly means. Their unwavering determination in the face of the vast unknown will forever inspire millions." 

He added, "Space exploration is about pushing the limits of human potential, daring to dream, and having the courage to turn those dreams into reality. Sunita Williams, a trailblazer and an icon, has exemplified this spirit throughout her career."

"We are incredibly proud of all those who worked tirelessly to ensure their safe return. They have demonstrated what happens when precision meets passion and technology meets tenacity."

Welcome back, #Crew9! The Earth missed you.

Theirs has been a test of grit, courage and the boundless human spirit. Sunita Williams and the #Crew9 astronauts have once again shown us what perseverance truly means. Their unwavering determination in the face of the vast unknown… pic.twitter.com/FkgagekJ7C

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 19, 2025

PM Modi's Special Letter To Sunita Williams

PM Modi on Tuesday wrote a special letter to Sunita Williams, who returned to earth after spending nine months in ISS. "Even though you are thousands of miles away, you remain close to our hearts," PM Modi said in the letter through astronaut Mike Massimino.

Union Minister Jitendra Singh shared a copy of the letter on social media on Tuesday. "As the whole world waits, with abated breath, for the safe return of Sunita Williams, this is how PM Narendra Modi expressed his concern for this daughter of India," Singh wrote on X.

PM Modi in the letter dated March 1 said, "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."

PM Modi said he enquired about her when he met President Donald Trump and his predecessor Joe Biden during his recent visits to the United States.

PM Modi said 1.4 billion Indians have always taken great pride in her 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," he wrote.

"Bonnie Pandya must be keenly awaiting your return and I am sure that Late Deepakbhai's blessings are with you as well. I fondly remember meeting him along with you during my visit to the United States in 2016," PM Modi said.

He added that Indians are looking forward to seeing her in India. "It will be a pleasure for India to host one of its most illustrious daughters," he wrote.