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SSC MTS 2026 PYQ — Question 65

SSC MTS - 9 Feb 2026 - Shift 3 • English • Q65

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Who was the first Indian astronaut to travel into space?

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Correct answer: A

Explanation

Answer: Option 1 → Rakesh Sharma 

  • Rakesh Sharma became the first Indian to travel into space on April 3, 1984, aboard Soyuz T-11 as part of the Indo-Soviet joint space program.
  • He spent 8 days aboard the Soviet space station Salyut 7.
  • Famous quote: When PM Indira Gandhi asked how India looked from space, he replied 'Saare Jahan Se Achha'.
  • He was honored with the Ashoka Chakra, India's highest peacetime gallantry award.
  • Other options: Raja Chari & Sirisha Bandla are Indian-origin American astronauts (NASA), not Indian citizens at time of flight; Ravish Malhotra was Rakesh Sharma's backup, but never flew.