Gandhi realised the need to protect Earth without going to space: Williams

Indian American astronaut Sunita Williams has said that Mahatma Gandhi realised the significance of protecting Earth without travelling to space.

Ahmedabad, Sept. 21 : Indian American astronaut Sunita Williams has said that Mahatma Gandhi realised the significance of protecting Earth without travelling to space.

"It is just that thin blue line that protects our planet from the dangers of the cold, the hot and the vacuum. It's our responsibility as human beings to take care of our planet. I think both of these impressions and principles Gandhi knew without even having to go to the space," said Williams while on a visit to the Sabarmati Ashram.

Welcomed by admirers at the ashram set up by Gandhi in 1915, Williams shared her experiences with students who had gathered to meet her.

Williams has said she was humbled by the enthusiastic support that she has received from many Indians during her time in space.

"I think her potential and determination was great. I hope all Indians should walk in this path and achieve great heights," said Sachi, a student.

Williams will also visit her ancestral home in Jhulasan village in North Gujarat's Mehsana District.The Indian media's treating Williams as their own homegrown heroine and a symbol of national pride.

During her week-long stay in India, Williams will attend an event with Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi and will visit her family.

During her last visit to India in 1998, she accompanied an urn believed to contain the ashes of India-born astronaut Kalpana Chawla.

ANI