PM announces fund for space scholarship

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh announces a fund for higher education in space named after Sunita Williams.

Describing Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams as a source of inspiration for the youth, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Monday announced a fund for higher education in space named after her.

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Williams, who has completed a record 195-day stay in space, called on the Prime Minister in New Delhi.

Singh said India was proud of her achievement and called her a "source of inspiration for all our youth".

The Prime Minister also announced a Government of India fund for Sunita Williams Scholarships for Higher Education in Space, Singh's media adviser Sanjaya Baru said.

Williams, dressed in a purple salwar suit, was accompanied by her father in the meeting with the Prime Minister.

Singh's wife Gursharan Kaur joined the Prime Minister in welcoming Williams to their 7, Race Course Road residence.

Science and Technology Minister Kapil Sibal was also present at the interaction.

Singh had spoken to the astronaut in Ahmedabad over phone after she landed there last month, congratulating her on her unique achievement and inviting her to meet him in Delhi.

Williams, who came to Delhi on Saturday, has already met UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and her engagements during her stay here ending October 4 include interactions with schoolchildren.