LEH: The Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, extended his congratulations on Thursday to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the triumphant completion of India's lunar mission, Chandrayaan-3.

In an official statement, the Dalai Lama remarked, "The successful touchdown of Chandrayaan-3 stands as a tribute to the Indian populace, which has historically devoted its focus to scientific advancement."

The revered spiritual leader also praised the chairman of ISRO and the team of dedicated scientists who diligently worked on the mission with the objective of showcasing "India’s scientific and technological prowess."

"I commend the ISRO chief and his team for their unwavering commitment that has translated into the realization of this mission. They have effectively demonstrated India’s advanced scientific and technological capabilities," the statement further quoted the spiritual leader.

"As the longest-standing guest of India, I share in the celebration of this significant achievement," expressed the Dalai Lama, appending, "I am confident that the Indian Scientific Research Organisation will persist in fortifying its leadership in upcoming scientific pursuits."

He concluded his message with prayers and well wishes.

Following a 40-day voyage through space, the Chandrayaan-3 lander, named 'Vikram', made a touchdown at the unexplored lunar South Pole on Wednesday evening, securing India's status as the pioneering nation to accomplish this feat.

India has now joined the ranks of only four nations—besides the United States, Russia, and China—to execute a successful lunar landing mission. The Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft skillfully positioned the Vikram lander onto the lunar terrain, achieving a horizontal orientation in preparation for landing.

The spacecraft embarked on its journey from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, on July 14.

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