Panchkula, Dec. 7 -- Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian astronaut to go to the International Space Station, on Saturday said that the country is rapidly advancing in the field of science and technology and its self-reliance in the domain is a matter of pride for every citizen.

While interacting with students and science enthusiasts during a session at the four-day India International Science Festival (IISF) which commenced in Panchkula on Saturday, Shukla urged them to pursue science and space research with determination. He described his view of the nation from space as "breathtaking," proclaiming that the country appears to be "the best in the world."

He detailed his nearly 20-day space journey, highlig...