India, July 21 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the Monsoon Session of Parliament begins at a time of "national pride and celebration," following India's historic achievement of hoisting the national flag at the International Space Station or ISS.

Addressing the media outside Parliament, shortly before the start of the session, PM Narendra Modi described the milestone as "a victory celebration" for the country and urged all MPs to unite in acknowledging it.

"This Monsoon session of Parliament is like a victory celebration. India's flag being hoisted at the International Space Station is a moment of pride for every Indian," Modi said.

He added that the achievement would serve as an inspiration for future generations and up...