New Delhi: India`s maiden tryst with the Mars Mission was widely hailed Tuesday with leaders like President Pranab Mukherjee, Vice President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh describing it as a "historic achievement" and "significant milestone".
Congress President Sonia Gandhi, BJP`s Prime Ministerial candidate Narendra Modi were also among a host of other dignitaries to congratulate the scientists for the successful launch of the `Mangalyan` Mission by ISRO.
"This launch of India’s first dedicated Mars Orbiter Spacecraft is a significant milestone in the progress of our space programme and space applications," Mukherjee said in his message to ISRO Chairman K Radhakrishnan.
"This day shall go down as a landmark in our space programme, a day which will inspire our scientists to make even greater strides in achieving our national goals in the field of space," he said.
Congratulating the scientists, Ansari said it is a matter of pride and joy for the entire nation.
"While this may be the first step in a long and difficult journey to the red planet, I am confident that our team of outstanding scientists and engineers will ensure a successful culmination of this complex mission.
"I once again extend my felicitations and best wishes to you and the entire team at ISRO on this commendable achievement and pray for the future success of the mission," he said.
Singh hailed the launch as a "historic achievement" and called up the ISRO Chairman to congratulate him and his team of scientists. He wished success to the mission.
"I congratulate all scientists of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) for the successful launch today of the Mars Orbiter mission, the most complex space mission of the country.
"The successful launch is the first step towards a successful mission and is testimony to ISRO`s mastery of the launch vehicle technology."
The Prime Minister wished the ISRO scientists all the best for the "delicate next steps in this ambitious and long mission to Mars which will be the most significant milestone in our space programme and I remain confident that they will do the country proud".
After the Cabinet gave its nod to the Rs 450 crore mission last year, the Prime Minister had said it will be a huge step for India in the area of science and technology.
"Under this Mission, our spaceship will go near Mars and collect important scientific information," he had observed.
Sonia Gandhi termed the launch as an "outstanding scientific feat" and lauded the space scientists for the historic mission.
Modi also congratulated ISRO scientists and said the milestone has placed India in a select club of countries.
He hoped the launch of the `Mangalyaan` will augur well for India.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Manish Tewari also congratulated scientists who brought Mars Mission to fruition.
"(This) underscores distinction, launch power of UPA qua lung power of a section of opposition," he tweeted.
