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On the occasion of India's 75th Independence Day celebration in Jammu and Kashmir, numerous flag hoisting ceremonies were held across the Union Territory.

Among such celebrations was one held in the Tral area of South Kashmir, where deceased&nbsp;Hizb Militant Burhan Wani's father, Muzaffar Wani, hoisted the national flag at Higher Secondary school in Tral.&nbsp;

Burhan Wani was killed in an encounter in 2016, leading to massive unrest in the Kashmir valley.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/independence-day-special-this-is-how-military-assets-were-divided-among-india-and-pakistan-405698" hreflang="en">Independence Day Special: This is how military assets were divided among India and Pakistan</a>

Muzaffar Wani is working as a headmaster in a government school at Tral In Pulwama.&nbsp;

The government under the "Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav", &nbsp;had directed the education department as well as many other government-run departments to ensure that flag hoisting is held in all offices on Independence Day.

''It's the biggest change we can see as far as the ground situation in Kashmir Valley is concerned. Burhan Wani's father hoisting the national flag in itself is a bigger message not only to the national community but also to the international community that things in Kashmir have started to change. Change has already started after the abrogation of article 370. The families which were ruling for three decades had done nothing and now we see the progress of common Kashmiris," said Nasir Khan, a youth activist.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/this-is-the-moment-the-right-moment-pm-modi-recites-poem-for-youth-during-independence-day-address-watch-405561" hreflang="en">'This is the moment, the right moment': PM Modi recites poem for youth during Independence Day address - Watch</a>

The young political leaders in the valley appreciated Muzzafar Wani for hoisting the national flag.&nbsp;

''It's a wonderful thing that he has supported change and peace, he has shown his love to the nation. I would appeal to the government that Kashmiris are giving love to the nation and now Delhi has to reciprocate,'' said Aaqib Renzu, a youth counsellor.&nbsp;

The LG of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha said that 23,000 flags were hoisted in educational institutions across Jammu and Kashmir. The main function to celebrate Independence Day was held at Srinagar Sheri Kashmir Cricket Stadium.&nbsp;

Sinha also hoisted a flag on Srinagar's only Fort Hari Parbat. A 100 feet flag was hoisted there which will be visible to all the people living in the Srinagar city.&nbsp;

On the occasion of India's 75th Independence Day celebration in Jammu and Kashmir, numerous flag hoisting ceremonies were held across the Union Territory. Among such celebrations was one held in the Tral area of South Kashmir, where deceased Hizb Militant Burhan Wani's father, Muzaffar Wani, hoisted the national flag at Higher Secondary school in Tral.

On the occasion of India's 75th Independence Day celebration in Jammu and Kashmir, numerous flag hoisting ceremonies were held across the Union Territory. Among such celebrations was one held in the Tral area of South Kashmir, where deceased Hizb Militant Burhan Wani's father, Muzaffar Wani, hoisted the national flag at Higher Secondary school in Tral. Burhan Wani was killed in an encounter in 2016, leading to massive unrest in the Kashmir valley. Also read | Independence Day Special: This is how military assets were divided among India and Pakistan Muzaffar Wani is working as a headmaster in a government school at Tral In Pulwama. The government under the "Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav", had directed the education department as well as many other government-run departments to ensure that flag hoisting is held in all offices on Independence Day. ''It's the biggest change we can see as far as the ground situation in Kashmir Valley is concerned. Burhan Wani's father hoisting the national flag in itself is a bigger message not only to the national community but also to the international community that things in Kashmir have started to change. Change has already started after the abrogation of article 370. The families which were ruling for three decades had done nothing and now we see the progress of common Kashmiris," said Nasir Khan, a youth activist. Also read | 'This is the moment, the right moment': PM Modi recites poem for youth during Independence Day address - Watch The young political leaders in the valley appreciated Muzzafar Wani for hoisting the national flag. ''It's a wonderful thing that he has supported change and peace, he has shown his love to the nation. I would appeal to the government that Kashmiris are giving love to the nation and now Delhi has to reciprocate,'' said Aaqib Renzu, a youth counsellor. The LG of Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha said that 23,000 flags were hoisted in educational institutions across Jammu and Kashmir. The main function to celebrate Independence Day was held at Srinagar Sheri Kashmir Cricket Stadium. Sinha also hoisted a flag on Srinagar's only Fort Hari Parbat. A 100 feet flag was hoisted there which will be visible to all the people living in the Srinagar city.

India Independence: Burhan Wani’s father hoists national flag, young leaders appreciate the move

As India celebrated its 75th <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-independence-day-from-humble-beginnings-the-nation-made-strides-in-science-and-technology-405129">Independence Day</a> on Sunday, several people from across the world played their own version of India's national anthem.

A video of an Iranian girl playing the santoor rendition of the Indian national anthem went viral on social media.

Watch:

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It’s with love from Iran. 
 
An Iranian girl playing “जन गण मन” our national anthem on santoor!!🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/iDqZKKM9Am">pic.twitter.com/iDqZKKM9Am</a>
— Er. Nitin Yadav (@nitinyadavlkw) <a href="https://twitter.com/nitinyadavlkw/status/1426215854258102277?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In another video, women workers at the Karnataka Khadi Gramodyoga Samyukta Sangha paid their tribute&nbsp;to India's Tokyo Olympic winners.

Watch:

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On this 75th year of Indian independence, we share the pride of this day with the women workers at the Karnataka Khadi Gramodyoga Samyukta Sangha and dedicate our tributes to the medal winners of the Tokyo Olympics.<a href="https://twitter.com/films_maya?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@films_maya</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDay2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDay2021</a> <a href="https://t.co/v07KPLUNyM">https://t.co/v07KPLUNyM</a>
— Puneeth Rajkumar (@PuneethRajkumar) <a href="https://twitter.com/PuneethRajkumar/status/1426762863260037122?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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In another heartwarming video, a little girl sings the national anthem released by the ministry of defence. In it, the very "adorable Esther Hnamte" brightens Independence Day celebrations. 
&nbsp;

Watch:

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This soulful rendition of the National Anthem by the very adorable Esther Hnamte will brighten up the Independence Day celebrations of every Indian! 
Watch the original video on "Esther Hnamte Official" <a href="https://t.co/8hLBE8xxHK">https://t.co/8hLBE8xxHK</a> <a href="https://t.co/Bu1HagWRh0">pic.twitter.com/Bu1HagWRh0</a>
— PRO Udhampur, Ministry of Defence (@proudhampur) <a href="https://twitter.com/proudhampur/status/1426218763821600770?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

An Austrian national Martina Mathur also sang the national anthem as Indians celebrated the great day.

Watch:

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An Austrian national Martina Mathur, who is wife of Ajay Mathur from Jammu sings Indian National Anthem. 
 
जय भारत 
जय जम्मू <a href="https://t.co/B8Y3wNymbf">pic.twitter.com/B8Y3wNymbf</a>
— Dutta Ji |🇮🇳 (@_DuttaJi) <a href="https://twitter.com/_DuttaJi/status/1426807511152087040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;Watch the WION team's Independence Day special video to see all these stunning renditions:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/viral-video-these-stunning-versions-of-indian-national-anthem-are-winning-hearts-405697/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As India celebrated its 75th Independence Day on Sunday, several people from across the world played their own version of India's national anthem. A video of an Iranian girl playing the santoor rendition of the Indian national anthem went viral on social media.

As India celebrated its 75th Independence Day on Sunday, several people from across the world played their own version of India's national anthem. A video of an Iranian girl playing the santoor rendition of the Indian national anthem went viral on social media. Watch: It’s with love from Iran. An Iranian girl playing “जन गण मन” our national anthem on santoor!!🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/iDqZKKM9Am — Er. Nitin Yadav (@nitinyadavlkw) August 13, 2021 × In another video, women workers at the Karnataka Khadi Gramodyoga Samyukta Sangha paid their tribute to India's Tokyo Olympic winners. Watch: On this 75th year of Indian independence, we share the pride of this day with the women workers at the Karnataka Khadi Gramodyoga Samyukta Sangha and dedicate our tributes to the medal winners of the Tokyo Olympics.@films_maya #IndependenceDay2021 https://t.co/v07KPLUNyM — Puneeth Rajkumar (@PuneethRajkumar) August 15, 2021 × In another heartwarming video, a little girl sings the national anthem released by the ministry of defence. In it, the very "adorable Esther Hnamte" brightens Independence Day celebrations. Watch: This soulful rendition of the National Anthem by the very adorable Esther Hnamte will brighten up the Independence Day celebrations of every Indian! Watch the original video on "Esther Hnamte Official" https://t.co/8hLBE8xxHK pic.twitter.com/Bu1HagWRh0 — PRO Udhampur, Ministry of Defence (@proudhampur) August 13, 2021 × An Austrian national Martina Mathur also sang the national anthem as Indians celebrated the great day. Watch: An Austrian national Martina Mathur, who is wife of Ajay Mathur from Jammu sings Indian National Anthem. जय भारत जय जम्मू pic.twitter.com/B8Y3wNymbf — Dutta Ji |🇮🇳 (@_DuttaJi) August 15, 2021 × Watch the WION team's Independence Day special video to see all these stunning renditions:

India Independence: One national anthem, many expressions - Iranian girl's santoor rendition and other versions of 'Jana Gana Mana' I Watch

Google celebrated&nbsp;India's 75th Independence Day with a special Doodle that illustrates&nbsp;traditional dance forms spanning across the country. From Bharatnatyam to Chhau dance, Google Doodle honoured&nbsp;the multicultural spirit of the nation, which is forged in centuries of the historical progress of India.&nbsp;

India celebrates Independence Day on August 15 every year, when the country got freedom from the oppressive British colonial rule in 1947 after decades of struggle and sacrifices.&nbsp;

"The Doodle artwork illustrates these diverse forms of dance. From the classical tradition of Bharatnatyam depicted on the far left to the oldest Indian dance style with origins stretching back 3000 years in the southern state of Tamil Nadu," Google wrote.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"Depicted third from the right, the masked reenactments from Indian epics known as Chhau dance have origins in the eastern state of Jharkhand, the Purulia Chau, and the Seraikella Chau regions," it added.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-congratulate-india-on-independence-day-405490">World leaders congratulate India on Independence Day&nbsp;</a>

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Today's <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GoogleDoodle?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GoogleDoodle</a> honors India's Independence Day 🇮🇳 
 
Today's artwork depicts traditional dances spanning across India—from the 3000 yr old Bharatnatyam to the masked reenactment of Indian epics known as Chhau 🎶 
 
🎨 by guest artist Sayan Mukherjee → <a href="https://t.co/dxy2vgDNEf">https://t.co/dxy2vgDNEf</a> <a href="https://t.co/7DVdsFrTV5">pic.twitter.com/7DVdsFrTV5</a>
— Google Doodles (@GoogleDoodles) <a href="https://twitter.com/GoogleDoodles/status/1426755541557301249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/independence-day-necessary-to-make-full-use-of-indias-potential-says-pm-modi-405470">Independence Day: Necessary to make full use of India's potential, says PM Modi</a>

The doodle was illustrated by Kolkata, India-based guest artist Sayan Mukherjee, who said as quoted by Google, "I have used different Indian dance forms to show the diversity of the country and coming together seamlessly on a stage performing. That shows the unity among each other being different. It is the unity of India which is holding us all together strong. I hope people take that from the Doodle."

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of Independence Day. He remembered the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for a free India. PM Modi also honoured the Coronavirus (COVID-19) warriors.&nbsp;

Watch PM Modi's address:

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I bow to the great Sri Aurobindo Ji on his Jayanti. His intellectual clarity, noble tenets and emphasis on India's regeneration give us great strength. He made pioneering contributions to India's freedom movement. <a href="https://t.co/Q6UkV4swkd">pic.twitter.com/Q6UkV4swkd</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1426777179875168257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Also watch:&nbsp;1947: Children of Partition - Five survivors tell their stories

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&nbsp;

Google celebrated India's 75th Independence Day with a special Doodle that illustrates traditional dance forms spanning across the country. From Bharatnatyam to Chhau dance, Google Doodle honoured the multicultural spirit of the nation, which is forged in centuries of the historical progress of India.

Google celebrated India's 75th Independence Day with a special Doodle that illustrates traditional dance forms spanning across the country. From Bharatnatyam to Chhau dance, Google Doodle honoured the multicultural spirit of the nation, which is forged in centuries of the historical progress of India. India celebrates Independence Day on August 15 every year, when the country got freedom from the oppressive British colonial rule in 1947 after decades of struggle and sacrifices. "The Doodle artwork illustrates these diverse forms of dance. From the classical tradition of Bharatnatyam depicted on the far left to the oldest Indian dance style with origins stretching back 3000 years in the southern state of Tamil Nadu," Google wrote. "Depicted third from the right, the masked reenactments from Indian epics known as Chhau dance have origins in the eastern state of Jharkhand, the Purulia Chau, and the Seraikella Chau regions," it added. ALSO READ | World leaders congratulate India on Independence Day Today's #GoogleDoodle honors India's Independence Day 🇮🇳 Today's artwork depicts traditional dances spanning across India—from the 3000 yr old Bharatnatyam to the masked reenactment of Indian epics known as Chhau 🎶 🎨 by guest artist Sayan Mukherjee → https://t.co/dxy2vgDNEf pic.twitter.com/7DVdsFrTV5 — Google Doodles (@GoogleDoodles) August 15, 2021 × ALSO READ | Independence Day: Necessary to make full use of India's potential, says PM Modi The doodle was illustrated by Kolkata, India-based guest artist Sayan Mukherjee, who said as quoted by Google, "I have used different Indian dance forms to show the diversity of the country and coming together seamlessly on a stage performing. That shows the unity among each other being different. It is the unity of India which is holding us all together strong. I hope people take that from the Doodle." Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of Independence Day. He remembered the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for a free India. PM Modi also honoured the Coronavirus (COVID-19) warriors. Watch PM Modi's address: I bow to the great Sri Aurobindo Ji on his Jayanti. His intellectual clarity, noble tenets and emphasis on India's regeneration give us great strength. He made pioneering contributions to India's freedom movement. pic.twitter.com/Q6UkV4swkd — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 15, 2021 × Also watch: 1947: Children of Partition - Five survivors tell their stories ×

Happy Independence Day: Google honours multicultural spirit of India with a unique Doodle

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced in his independence day address to the nation from the Red Fort that India is fighting the challenges of terrorism and expansionism and is dealing with them with great courage.

India: PM Modi's roadmap to peace and development

On India's 75th independence day PM Narendra Modi unveils a $1.35 trillion national infrastructure plan that will help generate jobs and expand the use of cleaner fuels to achieve the country's climate goals.

India: Prime Minister Modi announces $1.3 trillion national infrastructure plan

An Indian civic body is aiming to vaccinate around 150, 000 underprivileged people in India on the country's 75th Independence Day. The Robin Hood Army, a non-profit, civic body that is known to feed millions of underprivileged for the last 6 years has this year decided to vaccinate those who do not have access to apps and private hospitals amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

With help from leading technology companies, the Robin Hood Army has embarked on a nation wide campaign titled #mission28states🇮🇳 to fight the pandemic's biggest challenges- vaccine hesitancy and hunger.&nbsp; 
 
The campaign which kickstarted a week before Independence Day had volunteers across the country spearheading mass vaccine awareness and drive. The aim was to vaccinate 150,000 people and feed 5 million citizens across the country.&nbsp;

Neel Ghose, the founder of RHA spoke to WION recently and revealed that it is through strategic partnerships with local municipalities and healthcare facilities that the campaign has been able to take shape. RHA is aware that many who are vaccinated will come from homeless families and providing food to such is an important part of the campaign. Not just the homeless but RHA has aimed to include the transgender community, aged destitutes and all those who need help the most.

RHA has also got able support from big tech teams that have come forward to provide the infrastructure for the mission: Uber is providing thousands of rides, WhatsApp has built a dedicated chatbot for the mission, and Google is providing millions of meals.

Interestingly, no money is involved in any of the partnership and it is just the human goodness that took precedence for this noble campaign.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meet-new-age-robins-this-india-based-civic-body-is-feeding-millions-of-homeless-across-the-globe-321287">Meet new age Robins: This India based civic body is feeding millions of homeless across the globe</a>

The RHA is not new to such campaigns. Every year they launch massive food drives across the country to celebrate Independence day. Last year, the organisation had taken up the herculean task of feeding 30 million from mid- July to August. The mission was the largest food relief effort that any civic organization has ever put together.

An Indian civic body is aiming to vaccinate around 150, 000 underprivileged people in India on the country's 75th Independence Day. The Robin Hood Army, a non-profit, civic body that is known to feed millions of underprivileged for the last 6 years has this year decided to vaccinate those who do not have access to apps and private hospitals amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

An Indian civic body is aiming to vaccinate around 150, 000 underprivileged people in India on the country's 75th Independence Day. The Robin Hood Army, a non-profit, civic body that is known to feed millions of underprivileged for the last 6 years has this year decided to vaccinate those who do not have access to apps and private hospitals amid the COVID-19 pandemic. With help from leading technology companies, the Robin Hood Army has embarked on a nation wide campaign titled #mission28states🇮🇳 to fight the pandemic's biggest challenges- vaccine hesitancy and hunger. The campaign which kickstarted a week before Independence Day had volunteers across the country spearheading mass vaccine awareness and drive. The aim was to vaccinate 150,000 people and feed 5 million citizens across the country. Neel Ghose, the founder of RHA spoke to WION recently and revealed that it is through strategic partnerships with local municipalities and healthcare facilities that the campaign has been able to take shape. RHA is aware that many who are vaccinated will come from homeless families and providing food to such is an important part of the campaign. Not just the homeless but RHA has aimed to include the transgender community, aged destitutes and all those who need help the most. RHA has also got able support from big tech teams that have come forward to provide the infrastructure for the mission: Uber is providing thousands of rides, WhatsApp has built a dedicated chatbot for the mission, and Google is providing millions of meals. Interestingly, no money is involved in any of the partnership and it is just the human goodness that took precedence for this noble campaign. Meet new age Robins: This India based civic body is feeding millions of homeless across the globe The RHA is not new to such campaigns. Every year they launch massive food drives across the country to celebrate Independence day. Last year, the organisation had taken up the herculean task of feeding 30 million from mid- July to August. The mission was the largest food relief effort that any civic organization has ever put together.

This Indian charity organisation is aiming to vaccinate 150,000 people on Independence Day

As India rings in its 75th independence day, people across the country are celebrating. This is the second consecutive independence for the country in the pandemic. Indian Prime Minister Modi addressed the country from the Red Fort in the capital city of Delhi.

75 years of Independence: India is showing great courage, says PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of India's 75th <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-independence-why-was-august-15-chosen-as-independence-day-404571">Independence Day</a> on Sunday (August 15). From agriculture to infrastructure, from health to sports, PM Modi touched upon a range of topics.&nbsp;

One of the highlights of his address was a poem, he&nbsp;recited enthusiastically before ending his speech. With the help of the poem, which was in Hindi, PM Modi&nbsp;encouraged the countrymen to take charge by saying, "this is the moment, the right moment, the priceless moment of India".&nbsp;

Laying a roadmap for 25 years, when India will celebrate 100 years of freedom, PM Modi mentioned that "there's nothing people can't do" and there's nothing that can't be achieved. He motivated the countrymen by saying that just get up and recognise abilities and understand responsibilities.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-congratulate-india-on-independence-day-405490">World leaders congratulate India on Independence Day</a>

Here's the poem (Hindi): 
यही समय है, सही समय है,&nbsp; 
भारत का अनमोल समय है।&nbsp; 
असंख्य भुजाओं की शक्ति है, 
हर तरफ़ देश की भक्ति है,&nbsp; 
तुम उठो तिरंगा लहरा दो,&nbsp; 
भारत के भाग्य को फहरा दो।

यही समय है, सही समय है,&nbsp; 
भारत का अनमोल समय है।&nbsp; 
कुछ ऐसा नहीं जो कर ना सको,&nbsp; 
कुछ ऐसा नहीं जो पा ना सको, 
तुम उठ जाओ, तुम जुट जाओ,&nbsp; 
सामर्थ्य को अपने पहचानो,&nbsp; 
कर्तव्य को अपने सब जानो,&nbsp; 
भारत का ये अनमोल समय है,&nbsp; 
यही समय है, सही समय है ।

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/independence-day-necessary-to-make-full-use-of-indias-potential-says-pm-modi-405470">Independence Day: Necessary to make full use of India's potential, says PM Modi</a>

The poem loosely translated in English as, "This is the moment, the right moment. India's priceless moment. Power of innumerable arms and love for the nation. Pick up the National Flag and unfurl India's future."

"This is the moment, the right moment. India's priceless moment. There's nothing you can't do. There's nothing you can't get. Get up and get going, recognise your abilities and responsibilities.&nbsp;

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यही समय है, सही समय है, 
 
भारत का अनमोल समय है। 
 
असंख्य भुजाओं की शक्ति है, 
 
हर तरफ़ देश की भक्ति है, 
 
तुम उठो तिरंगा लहरा दो, 
 
भारत के भाग्य को फहरा दो: PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1426748682892808197?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/happy-independence-day-google-honours-multicultural-spirit-of-india-with-unique-a-doodle-405533">Happy Independence Day: Google honours multicultural spirit of India with unique a Doodle</a>

During his address, PM Modi also remembered the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for a free India. PM Modi also honoured the Coronavirus (COVID-19) warriors and stars of the Tokyo Olympics, who brought glory to the nation.

Watch his address here:&nbsp;

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Addressing the nation from the Red Fort. Watch. <a href="https://t.co/wEX5viCIVs">https://t.co/wEX5viCIVs</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1426728344867860485?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of India's 75th Independence Day on Sunday (August 15). From agriculture to infrastructure, from health to sports, PM Modi touched upon a range of topics.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of India's 75th Independence Day on Sunday (August 15). From agriculture to infrastructure, from health to sports, PM Modi touched upon a range of topics. One of the highlights of his address was a poem, he recited enthusiastically before ending his speech. With the help of the poem, which was in Hindi, PM Modi encouraged the countrymen to take charge by saying, "this is the moment, the right moment, the priceless moment of India". Laying a roadmap for 25 years, when India will celebrate 100 years of freedom, PM Modi mentioned that "there's nothing people can't do" and there's nothing that can't be achieved. He motivated the countrymen by saying that just get up and recognise abilities and understand responsibilities. ALSO READ | World leaders congratulate India on Independence Day Here's the poem (Hindi): यही समय है, सही समय है, भारत का अनमोल समय है। असंख्य भुजाओं की शक्ति है, हर तरफ़ देश की भक्ति है, तुम उठो तिरंगा लहरा दो, भारत के भाग्य को फहरा दो। यही समय है, सही समय है, भारत का अनमोल समय है। कुछ ऐसा नहीं जो कर ना सको, कुछ ऐसा नहीं जो पा ना सको, तुम उठ जाओ, तुम जुट जाओ, सामर्थ्य को अपने पहचानो, कर्तव्य को अपने सब जानो, भारत का ये अनमोल समय है, यही समय है, सही समय है । ALSO READ | Independence Day: Necessary to make full use of India's potential, says PM Modi The poem loosely translated in English as, "This is the moment, the right moment. India's priceless moment. Power of innumerable arms and love for the nation. Pick up the National Flag and unfurl India's future." "This is the moment, the right moment. India's priceless moment. There's nothing you can't do. There's nothing you can't get. Get up and get going, recognise your abilities and responsibilities. यही समय है, सही समय है, भारत का अनमोल समय है। असंख्य भुजाओं की शक्ति है, हर तरफ़ देश की भक्ति है, तुम उठो तिरंगा लहरा दो, भारत के भाग्य को फहरा दो: PM @narendramodi — PMO India (@PMOIndia) August 15, 2021 × × ALSO READ | Happy Independence Day: Google honours multicultural spirit of India with unique a Doodle During his address, PM Modi also remembered the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for a free India. PM Modi also honoured the Coronavirus (COVID-19) warriors and stars of the Tokyo Olympics, who brought glory to the nation. Watch his address here: Addressing the nation from the Red Fort. Watch. https://t.co/wEX5viCIVs — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 15, 2021 ×

'This is the moment, the right moment': PM Modi recites poem for youth during Independence Day address - Watch

Water Sports, Rugby, Golf, Cricket, Soccer & Martial Arts, youngsters in Kashmir are taking to sports in a big way. In this episode of 'Kashmir Road To Progress,' we meet role models who are transforming the culture of sports in the Valley.

Kashmir- Road To Progress: Sports spirit in the Valley

As India completes 75&nbsp;years of its independence, it is time to introspect the country’s space programme that has grown and evolved significantly in the last decades.

The programme originally focused on developing space assets that provided direct developmental benefits, for example, telecommunications and remote sensing satellites that helped both in improving communication facilities and giving direct assistance to India’s farmers.

But over time, India has shifted a part of its focus towards space exploration and other high-profile missions. This includes, for example, India’s Mars and Moon exploratory missions.

Overall, India has been fairly successful in these efforts and its space&nbsp;programme&nbsp;has become a comprehensive one that includes not only a robust launch capacity and very large remote sensing satellite systems, but also a very well-rounded scientific and deep space exploratory programme.

Genesis

The space research activities were initiated in India during the early 1960s, when applications using satellites were in experimental stages even in the United States. With the live transmission of Tokyo Olympic Games across the Pacific by the American Satellite ‘Syncom-3’ demonstrating the power of communication satellites, Dr Vikram Sarabhai, the founding father of Indian space programme, quickly recognised the benefits of space technologies for India.

As a first step, the Department of Atomic Energy formed the Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR) under the leadership of Dr Sarabhai and Dr Ramanathan in 1962. Later, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) was formed on August 15, 1969. The prime objective of ISRO is to develop space technology and its application to various national needs.&nbsp;

It is one of the six largest space agencies in the world today. The Department of Space (DOS) and the Space Commission were set up in 1972 and ISRO was brought under DOS on June 1, 1972.

In 1984, air force pilot Rakesh Sharma was the first Indian to go into space, riding in a Soviet spacecraft.&nbsp;

Since its inception, the Indian space programme has been orchestrated well and had three distinct elements: satellites for communication and remote sensing, space transportation system and application programmes. Two major operational systems have been established – the Indian National Satellite (INSAT) for telecommunication, television broadcasting, and meteorological services and the Indian Remote Sensing Satellite (IRS) for monitoring and management of natural resources and Disaster Management Support.

Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman had announced that India will allow the involvement of private companies in its space exploration and satellite launch programmes.

Both industries are currently predominantly operated by ISRO.

Planning manned space flights and a space station

India wants to launch its first manned space mission in 2022, to mark the 75th anniversary of the nation’s independence. Codenamed Gaganyaan,&nbsp;a space vehicle in Sanskrit,&nbsp;the project has a budget of almost $1.5 billion.

Gaganyaan will have a crew of two or three people and spend around seven days in low Earth orbit. ISRO says the mission is the first step towards building India’s own space station, which it plans to do in five to seven years.

Months after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s election in 2014, India became the first Asian nation to reach Mars when its first mission to the red planet entered orbit, at a cost of $74 million, or less than the budget of the Hollywood space blockbuster “Gravity”.

The country is planning to launch another space probe to Mars along with its first manned space mission by 2022. It has also approved a project to study the sun late next year, and ISRO chairman Dr K Sivan has reportedly said that he wants to reach Venus in 2023.

India is planning these ambitious missions on the back of its development of a range of increasingly large launch rockets, culminating in the GSLV Mk III, which is as powerful as the Saturn V, the rocket that launched the Apollo moon missions”.

National security&nbsp;

India’s already robust space programme has also acquired national security implications&nbsp;over the last decade. This is partly driven by India’s growing technological capacity. But an important reason for this change is the evolving security threats that India faced, especially in relation with Pakistan and China. The perceived need to keep pace with the expansion of Pakistan’s ballistic missile capabilities has become stronger over the years, making India much more willing to consider the utility of such weapon systems. In addition, China’s first successful anti-satellite (ASAT) test in January 2007 suddenly made India’s space-based assets vulnerable. India thus had to consider developing its own ASAT capability, at least as a deterrent to anybody else using ASATs against Indian assets in space.

China’s achievements in space led not only to India’s own ASAT programme, but also to other elements that enhanced the security component of India’s space programme.

As the military characteristics of its space programme are becoming more evident, India is also moving away from its traditional position of non-weaponisation of space to a more nuanced approach to its national space policy. While the official policy itself has not changed, India is beginning to have a much more determined approach to how it wants to protect its assets in outer space as well as its ground infrastructure and the services linked to space.&nbsp;

One of the biggest shifts evident in the last decade is the development of India’s military space capabilities and the establishment of the institutional architecture that supports the new functions and roles for space in India’s national security calculations.&nbsp;

In particular, India established a Defence Space Agency (DSA) in April 2019, which is expected to be the forerunner for a full-fledged aerospace command. It is also establishing a Defence Space Research Organisation (DSRO), which is meant to undertake research and development on the capability mix that is required as per the strategy and policy developed by the DSA.

In a first, India conducted a space security table-top war game called “IndSpaceEx” in late July 2019, which involved all the different stakeholders such as the military and the scientific establishment.&nbsp;

This is another reflection of the growing synergistic approach between space and the military. The Indian space programme, thus, is being carried along not only because of its developmental needs, but also because of larger international political factors, such as the heightening international tension, great power competition and the lack of sufficient safeguards, international norms and institutions to protect the non-weaponisation of outer space.

A leader in satellite launches for other nations

There are more than 2,000 working satellites orbiting the earth. Almost half of them belong to US-based organisations, 300 originate from China and roughly half that number is from Russia.

The market for commercial space launches is crowded and competitive, with Russia’s Soyuz and Vega launchers competing with those of the European Space Agency and the reusable rockets flown by US entrepreneur Elon Musk’s SpaceX corporation.

Commercial satellites now heavily outnumber those used by the military.&nbsp;

Clearly, India is a leader in this segment. For the nation,&nbsp; as far as space is concerned, sky is not the limit.

As India completes 75 years of its independence, it is time to introspect the country’s space programme that has grown and evolved significantly in the last decades.

As India completes 75 years of its independence, it is time to introspect the country’s space programme that has grown and evolved significantly in the last decades. The programme originally focused on developing space assets that provided direct developmental benefits, for example, telecommunications and remote sensing satellites that helped both in improving communication facilities and giving direct assistance to India’s farmers. But over time, India has shifted a part of its focus towards space exploration and other high-profile missions. This includes, for example, India’s Mars and Moon exploratory missions. Overall, India has been fairly successful in these efforts and its space programme has become a comprehensive one that includes not only a robust launch capacity and very large remote sensing satellite systems, but also a very well-rounded scientific and deep space exploratory programme. Genesis The space research activities were initiated in India during the early 1960s, when applications using satellites were in experimental stages even in the United States. With the live transmission of Tokyo Olympic Games across the Pacific by the American Satellite ‘Syncom-3’ demonstrating the power of communication satellites, Dr Vikram Sarabhai, the founding father of Indian space programme, quickly recognised the benefits of space technologies for India. As a first step, the Department of Atomic Energy formed the Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR) under the leadership of Dr Sarabhai and Dr Ramanathan in 1962. Later, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) was formed on August 15, 1969. The prime objective of ISRO is to develop space technology and its application to various national needs. It is one of the six largest space agencies in the world today. The Department of Space (DOS) and the Space Commission were set up in 1972 and ISRO was brought under DOS on June 1, 1972. In 1984, air force pilot Rakesh Sharma was the first Indian to go into space, riding in a Soviet spacecraft. Since its inception, the Indian space programme has been orchestrated well and had three distinct elements: satellites for communication and remote sensing, space transportation system and application programmes. Two major operational systems have been established – the Indian National Satellite (INSAT) for telecommunication, television broadcasting, and meteorological services and the Indian Remote Sensing Satellite (IRS) for monitoring and management of natural resources and Disaster Management Support. Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman had announced that India will allow the involvement of private companies in its space exploration and satellite launch programmes. Both industries are currently predominantly operated by ISRO. Planning manned space flights and a space station India wants to launch its first manned space mission in 2022, to mark the 75th anniversary of the nation’s independence. Codenamed Gaganyaan, a space vehicle in Sanskrit, the project has a budget of almost $1.5 billion. Gaganyaan will have a crew of two or three people and spend around seven days in low Earth orbit. ISRO says the mission is the first step towards building India’s own space station, which it plans to do in five to seven years. Months after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s election in 2014, India became the first Asian nation to reach Mars when its first mission to the red planet entered orbit, at a cost of $74 million, or less than the budget of the Hollywood space blockbuster “Gravity”. The country is planning to launch another space probe to Mars along with its first manned space mission by 2022. It has also approved a project to study the sun late next year, and ISRO chairman Dr K Sivan has reportedly said that he wants to reach Venus in 2023. India is planning these ambitious missions on the back of its development of a range of increasingly large launch rockets, culminating in the GSLV Mk III, which is as powerful as the Saturn V, the rocket that launched the Apollo moon missions”. National security India’s already robust space programme has also acquired national security implications over the last decade. This is partly driven by India’s growing technological capacity. But an important reason for this change is the evolving security threats that India faced, especially in relation with Pakistan and China. The perceived need to keep pace with the expansion of Pakistan’s ballistic missile capabilities has become stronger over the years, making India much more willing to consider the utility of such weapon systems. In addition, China’s first successful anti-satellite (ASAT) test in January 2007 suddenly made India’s space-based assets vulnerable. India thus had to consider developing its own ASAT capability, at least as a deterrent to anybody else using ASATs against Indian assets in space. China’s achievements in space led not only to India’s own ASAT programme, but also to other elements that enhanced the security component of India’s space programme. As the military characteristics of its space programme are becoming more evident, India is also moving away from its traditional position of non-weaponisation of space to a more nuanced approach to its national space policy. While the official policy itself has not changed, India is beginning to have a much more determined approach to how it wants to protect its assets in outer space as well as its ground infrastructure and the services linked to space. One of the biggest shifts evident in the last decade is the development of India’s military space capabilities and the establishment of the institutional architecture that supports the new functions and roles for space in India’s national security calculations. In particular, India established a Defence Space Agency (DSA) in April 2019, which is expected to be the forerunner for a full-fledged aerospace command. It is also establishing a Defence Space Research Organisation (DSRO), which is meant to undertake research and development on the capability mix that is required as per the strategy and policy developed by the DSA. In a first, India conducted a space security table-top war game called “IndSpaceEx” in late July 2019, which involved all the different stakeholders such as the military and the scientific establishment. This is another reflection of the growing synergistic approach between space and the military. The Indian space programme, thus, is being carried along not only because of its developmental needs, but also because of larger international political factors, such as the heightening international tension, great power competition and the lack of sufficient safeguards, international norms and institutions to protect the non-weaponisation of outer space. A leader in satellite launches for other nations There are more than 2,000 working satellites orbiting the earth. Almost half of them belong to US-based organisations, 300 originate from China and roughly half that number is from Russia. The market for commercial space launches is crowded and competitive, with Russia’s Soyuz and Vega launchers competing with those of the European Space Agency and the reusable rockets flown by US entrepreneur Elon Musk’s SpaceX corporation. Commercial satellites now heavily outnumber those used by the military. Clearly, India is a leader in this segment. For the nation, as far as space is concerned, sky is not the limit.

India Independence: The rise of a space power

In a tweet,&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced&nbsp;on Saturday that&nbsp;August 14 will be observed as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day&nbsp;to commemorate the&nbsp;struggles and sacrifices of&nbsp;the&nbsp;people&nbsp;at that time.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;prime minister said the&nbsp;pains of the&nbsp;partition can never be forgotten.&nbsp;“Millions of our sisters and brothers were displaced and many lost their lives due to mindless hate and violence. In memory of the struggles and sacrifices of our people, 14th August will be observed as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day,” said Modi on the microblogging site.&nbsp;

“May the #PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay keep reminding us of the need to remove the poison of social divisions, disharmony and further strengthen the spirit of oneness, social harmony and human empowerment," he added in another tweet.&nbsp;

On August 14, Pakistan was carved out as a Muslim country after the division of India. It also brought the end of the&nbsp;British colonial rule in 1947. Millions of people were displaced and many lakhs of them&nbsp;also&nbsp;lost their lives&nbsp;due to the&nbsp;large-scale&nbsp;riots, which broke out during the partition.&nbsp;

This year,&nbsp;India will be celebrating its 75th Independence Day on Sunday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a tweet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Saturday that August 14 will be observed as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day to commemorate the struggles and sacrifices of the people at that time.

In a tweet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Saturday that August 14 will be observed as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day to commemorate the struggles and sacrifices of the people at that time. The prime minister said the pains of the partition can never be forgotten. “Millions of our sisters and brothers were displaced and many lost their lives due to mindless hate and violence. In memory of the struggles and sacrifices of our people, 14th August will be observed as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day,” said Modi on the microblogging site. “May the #PartitionHorrorsRemembranceDay keep reminding us of the need to remove the poison of social divisions, disharmony and further strengthen the spirit of oneness, social harmony and human empowerment," he added in another tweet. On August 14, Pakistan was carved out as a Muslim country after the division of India. It also brought the end of the British colonial rule in 1947. Millions of people were displaced and many lakhs of them also lost their lives due to the large-scale riots, which broke out during the partition. This year, India will be celebrating its 75th Independence Day on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi: August 14 to be observed as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day

The Indian government will be providing&nbsp;refuge to Afghans as the country plunges into crisis with the Taliban making territorial gains.

These are Afghans who worked closely with India and others who are now vulnerable such as journalists, writers, activists, minorities, and more. The visas will be given to all Afghan National irrespective of religion and primarily on case by case basis.

The plans are afoot but&nbsp;the number of locals getting refuge is still unknown. These nationals will be on long-term visas to India.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-address-to-nation-afghan-president-vows-to-prevent-further-instability-405337" hreflang="en">In address to nation, Afghan President vows to prevent further instability</a>

Several other countries, such as the US, have initiated similar action plans to protect the locals of Afghans who are now being targetted by the Taliban. The US is currently processing visas of many Afghans who supported them at a processing facility at Kabul's Hamid Karzai airport. Similarly, Canada has announced plans to resettle 20,000 Afghans, including women leaders, human rights workers, and reporters.

Meanwhile, New Delhi continues to monitor the evolving situation, as the situation deteriorates in the country. Taliban has made rapid territorial gains with provincial capital after provincial capital falling. Last week, India brought back 50 of its nationals from Mazar-e-sharif as the city was surrounded by advancing Taliban fighters.&nbsp;India could likely also bring back all non-essential staff from its embassy in Kabul soon.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/seeking-asylum-for-siv-applicants-a-desperate-bid-by-the-biden-administration-405352" hreflang="en">Seeking asylum for SIV applicants: A desperate bid by the Biden administration</a>

When it comes to Indian consulates, India has withdrawn diplomats from both, Kandahar and Mazar consulates. Both consulates are now being run by locals. Regular security advisories have been issued by the Indian embassy in Kabul asking its nationals to return back to India by the earliest commercial flight. In its fourth security advisory on August 12, Indian mission in Kabul said, "All Indian nationals in Afghanistan are once again requested to strictly adhere to the measures advocated."

Indian mission had earlier issues advisories on June 29, July 24, and&nbsp;August 10. India has nearly&nbsp;1,500 Indian citizens in Afghanistan, involved in various development works.

The Indian government will be providing refuge to Afghans as the country plunges into crisis with the Taliban making territorial gains. These are Afghans who worked closely with India and others who are now vulnerable such as journalists, writers, activists, minorities, and more.

The Indian government will be providing refuge to Afghans as the country plunges into crisis with the Taliban making territorial gains. These are Afghans who worked closely with India and others who are now vulnerable such as journalists, writers, activists, minorities, and more. The visas will be given to all Afghan National irrespective of religion and primarily on case by case basis. The plans are afoot but the number of locals getting refuge is still unknown. These nationals will be on long-term visas to India. Also read | In address to nation, Afghan President vows to prevent further instability Several other countries, such as the US, have initiated similar action plans to protect the locals of Afghans who are now being targetted by the Taliban. The US is currently processing visas of many Afghans who supported them at a processing facility at Kabul's Hamid Karzai airport. Similarly, Canada has announced plans to resettle 20,000 Afghans, including women leaders, human rights workers, and reporters. Meanwhile, New Delhi continues to monitor the evolving situation, as the situation deteriorates in the country. Taliban has made rapid territorial gains with provincial capital after provincial capital falling. Last week, India brought back 50 of its nationals from Mazar-e-sharif as the city was surrounded by advancing Taliban fighters. India could likely also bring back all non-essential staff from its embassy in Kabul soon. Also read | Seeking asylum for SIV applicants: A desperate bid by the Biden administration When it comes to Indian consulates, India has withdrawn diplomats from both, Kandahar and Mazar consulates. Both consulates are now being run by locals. Regular security advisories have been issued by the Indian embassy in Kabul asking its nationals to return back to India by the earliest commercial flight. In its fourth security advisory on August 12, Indian mission in Kabul said, "All Indian nationals in Afghanistan are once again requested to strictly adhere to the measures advocated." Indian mission had earlier issues advisories on June 29, July 24, and August 10. India has nearly 1,500 Indian citizens in Afghanistan, involved in various development works.

India to provide refuge to Afghans amid deteriorating situation, plans afoot

President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday said Parliament is the "temple of the country's democracy" which provides the highest forum to discuss, debate and decide issues for the well-being of people, remarks that came against the backdrop of the recent ruckus and continuous disruptions that led to the abrupt adjournment of the two Houses.

In a televised address to the nation on the eve of the 75th Independence Day, the President also referred to the second COVID-19 wave and said the country is yet to come out of its devastating effects. He asserted this is the time for extra care and caution, and people should not let their guard down.

President Kovind also sought to address the concerns raised by protesting farmers' unions against the three contentious farm laws, saying the series of agricultural marketing reforms will empower our 'annadata' farmers and help them get a better price for their produce.

Referring to the recently concluded Tokyo Olympics, he lauded the "stellar" performance by the country's sportspersons.

President Kovind said when India won independence, many sceptics thought democracy would not survive in India.

"Little did they know that roots of democracy were nurtured in this soil in ancient times, and even in modern times India was ahead of many western nations in offering franchise to all adults, regardless of any distinctions."

The founding fathers had reposed their faith in the wisdom of the people, and 'we, the people of India' have made India a strong democracy, he added.

"We have adopted the system of parliamentary democracy. Therefore, our Parliament is the temple of our democracy which provides us highest forum where we discuss, debate and decide issues for the well-being of our people,"&nbsp;the President said.

Both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha were adjourned sine die on August 11, two days ahead of the scheduled date of August 13, after a tumultuous Monsoon session that witnessed unruly scenes in the Upper House on Wednesday when the Insurance bill was being passed.

The Government and the opposition parties had traded charges over the abrupt end of the Monsoon session which was marred by continuous disruptions since it commenced on July 19.

The opposition parties accused the government of crushing their voice in Parliament, "murdering" democracy and bringing "outsiders" as marshals to beat up MPs, a charge denied by the government. The government on its part had alleged that it was pre-planned by the opposition to not allow Parliament to function.

Kovind also said it is a matter of great pride for all Indians that our Parliament will soon be housed in a new building.

"It will be a fitting statement of our outlook. It will honour our legacy while also walking in step with the contemporary world, he said, adding that it is more than symbolic that the new building will be inaugurated in the year of the 75th anniversary of Independence."

President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday said Parliament is the "temple of the country's democracy" which provides the highest forum to discuss, debate and decide issues for the well-being of people, remarks that came against the backdrop of the recent ruckus and continuous disruptions that led to the abrupt adjournment of the two Houses.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Saturday said Parliament is the "temple of the country's democracy" which provides the highest forum to discuss, debate and decide issues for the well-being of people, remarks that came against the backdrop of the recent ruckus and continuous disruptions that led to the abrupt adjournment of the two Houses. In a televised address to the nation on the eve of the 75th Independence Day, the President also referred to the second COVID-19 wave and said the country is yet to come out of its devastating effects. He asserted this is the time for extra care and caution, and people should not let their guard down. President Kovind also sought to address the concerns raised by protesting farmers' unions against the three contentious farm laws, saying the series of agricultural marketing reforms will empower our 'annadata' farmers and help them get a better price for their produce. Referring to the recently concluded Tokyo Olympics, he lauded the "stellar" performance by the country's sportspersons. President Kovind said when India won independence, many sceptics thought democracy would not survive in India. "Little did they know that roots of democracy were nurtured in this soil in ancient times, and even in modern times India was ahead of many western nations in offering franchise to all adults, regardless of any distinctions." The founding fathers had reposed their faith in the wisdom of the people, and 'we, the people of India' have made India a strong democracy, he added. "We have adopted the system of parliamentary democracy. Therefore, our Parliament is the temple of our democracy which provides us highest forum where we discuss, debate and decide issues for the well-being of our people," the President said. Both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha were adjourned sine die on August 11, two days ahead of the scheduled date of August 13, after a tumultuous Monsoon session that witnessed unruly scenes in the Upper House on Wednesday when the Insurance bill was being passed. The Government and the opposition parties had traded charges over the abrupt end of the Monsoon session which was marred by continuous disruptions since it commenced on July 19. The opposition parties accused the government of crushing their voice in Parliament, "murdering" democracy and bringing "outsiders" as marshals to beat up MPs, a charge denied by the government. The government on its part had alleged that it was pre-planned by the opposition to not allow Parliament to function. Kovind also said it is a matter of great pride for all Indians that our Parliament will soon be housed in a new building. "It will be a fitting statement of our outlook. It will honour our legacy while also walking in step with the contemporary world, he said, adding that it is more than symbolic that the new building will be inaugurated in the year of the 75th anniversary of Independence."

President Kovind addresses nation on eve of India's 75th Independence Day

A 98-year-old freedom fighter who contributed to the Quit India movement was honoured by the Government of India on Saturday.

The freedom fighter, identified as Kartick Chandra Dutta, was honoured at his Kolkata residence by representatives of the government.

"Dutta was among the few freedom fighters who were invited in Delhi to get honoured by the Government of India on the occasion of Independence Day but it could not happen because of Covid. So the government sent their people here. He has been honoured in Delhi by the President and the Prime Minister before this about five or six times," said Dutta's son, Debakar.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-independence-diaspora-power-from-remittances-to-diplomacy-overseas-indians-script-indias-success-story-405316" hreflang="en">India Independence: Diaspora power - From remittances to diplomacy, overseas Indians script India's success story</a>

On his father's contribution as a freedom fighter, he said: "Since the beginning, he wanted to do something for his country. He had a group of like-minded friends as well. He raised slogans during the Quit India movement but was arrested and put into prison."

"I was not aware of him being a freedom fighter. My mother-in-law told me about it. It was tough when he was put behind bars," said Manjula, his wife.

While speaking to ANI, Kartick Chandra Dutta recalled being sent to prison several times but not leaving the freedom struggle in spite of that.

Kartick still remembers the times he was invited to the President's House to be honoured on Independence Day and expressed the wish that he gets to visit Delhi again in the future on this occasion.

A 98-year-old freedom fighter who contributed to the Quit India movement was honoured by the Government of India on Saturday. The freedom fighter, identified as Kartick Chandra Dutta, was honoured at his Kolkata residence by representatives of the government.

A 98-year-old freedom fighter who contributed to the Quit India movement was honoured by the Government of India on Saturday. The freedom fighter, identified as Kartick Chandra Dutta, was honoured at his Kolkata residence by representatives of the government. "Dutta was among the few freedom fighters who were invited in Delhi to get honoured by the Government of India on the occasion of Independence Day but it could not happen because of Covid. So the government sent their people here. He has been honoured in Delhi by the President and the Prime Minister before this about five or six times," said Dutta's son, Debakar. Also read | India Independence: Diaspora power - From remittances to diplomacy, overseas Indians script India's success story On his father's contribution as a freedom fighter, he said: "Since the beginning, he wanted to do something for his country. He had a group of like-minded friends as well. He raised slogans during the Quit India movement but was arrested and put into prison." "I was not aware of him being a freedom fighter. My mother-in-law told me about it. It was tough when he was put behind bars," said Manjula, his wife. While speaking to ANI, Kartick Chandra Dutta recalled being sent to prison several times but not leaving the freedom struggle in spite of that. Kartick still remembers the times he was invited to the President's House to be honoured on Independence Day and expressed the wish that he gets to visit Delhi again in the future on this occasion.

India: 98-yr-old freedom fighter from Quit India movement honoured by government

Indian President Ram Nath Kovind has addressed the nation on the eve of 75th Independence Day. To know more, watch this report.

India: President Ram Nath Kovind addresses nation on eve of 75th Independence Day

As many as 1,380 police personnel have been awarded medals on the occasion of Independence Day, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced on Saturday. 
 
Amongst 628 Gallantry Awards, one President's Police Medal for Gallantry (PPMG) has been given to the Jammu and Kashmir Police (J&amp;K Police) and one to the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) posthumously.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-independence-diaspora-power-from-remittances-to-diplomacy-overseas-indians-script-indias-success-story-405316" hreflang="en">India Independence: Diaspora power - From remittances to diplomacy, overseas Indians script India's success story</a> 
 
Meanwhile, according to the MHA, 398 police personnel are being awarded for their gallant action in Jammu and Kashmir region, 155 personnel for their gallant action in Left Wing Extremism affected areas and 27 personnel in the North-East Region. 
 
The Gallantry medals'&nbsp;awardee, includes 256 from J&amp;K Police, 151 from CRPF, 23 from Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), 67 from Odisha Police, 25 from Maharashtra Police, 20 from Chhattisgarh and the remaining from the other states, Union Territories and other Central Armed Police Forces. 
 
Also, 88 medals have been awarded under the President`s Police Medal for Distinguished Service (PPM) whereas 662 personnel have been awarded the Police Medal for Meritorious Service (PM).

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-august-14-to-be-observed-as-partition-horrors-remembrance-day-405310" hreflang="en">PM Modi:&nbsp;August 14 to be observed as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day</a>

J&amp;K Police Sub-Inspector Amar Deep has been awarded the highest gallantry award- PPMG, while the Head Constable late Kale Sunil Dattatraya of CRPF has been given PPMG posthumously. 
 
The President's Police Medal is a decoration awarded to the Police personnel in India. Established on March 1, 1951, the medal was originally called the President's Police and Fire Service Medal. 
 
The medal is awarded for either gallantry or distinguished service, with the gallantry version of the medal being accorded higher precedence. The medal is awarded annually on Republic Day and Independence Day.

As many as 1,380 police personnel have been awarded medals on the occasion of Independence Day, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced on Saturday. Amongst 628 Gallantry Awards, one President's Police Medal for Gallantry (PPMG) has been given to the Jammu and Kashmir Police (J&K Police) and one to the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) posthumously.

As many as 1,380 police personnel have been awarded medals on the occasion of Independence Day, the Ministry of Home Affairs announced on Saturday. Amongst 628 Gallantry Awards, one President's Police Medal for Gallantry (PPMG) has been given to the Jammu and Kashmir Police (J&K Police) and one to the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) posthumously. Also read | India Independence: Diaspora power - From remittances to diplomacy, overseas Indians script India's success story Meanwhile, according to the MHA, 398 police personnel are being awarded for their gallant action in Jammu and Kashmir region, 155 personnel for their gallant action in Left Wing Extremism affected areas and 27 personnel in the North-East Region. The Gallantry medals' awardee, includes 256 from J&K Police, 151 from CRPF, 23 from Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), 67 from Odisha Police, 25 from Maharashtra Police, 20 from Chhattisgarh and the remaining from the other states, Union Territories and other Central Armed Police Forces. Also, 88 medals have been awarded under the President`s Police Medal for Distinguished Service (PPM) whereas 662 personnel have been awarded the Police Medal for Meritorious Service (PM). Also read | PM Modi: August 14 to be observed as Partition Horrors Remembrance Day J&K Police Sub-Inspector Amar Deep has been awarded the highest gallantry award- PPMG, while the Head Constable late Kale Sunil Dattatraya of CRPF has been given PPMG posthumously. The President's Police Medal is a decoration awarded to the Police personnel in India. Established on March 1, 1951, the medal was originally called the President's Police and Fire Service Medal. The medal is awarded for either gallantry or distinguished service, with the gallantry version of the medal being accorded higher precedence. The medal is awarded annually on Republic Day and Independence Day.

India Independence day: 1,380 police personnel awarded medals, announces MHA

From agrarian crisis to privatisation; demonetisation to the introduction of Goods and Service Tax (GST), from stock markets touching new highs to digitisation; independent India has seen many an economic upheaval.

Was it for good? Did the decisions taken by various governments really help the Indian economy grow? Did India manage to become the golden nation its freedom fighters had dreamt of? The answer to these remains locked in history books and research papers. &nbsp;

In 1947, when India became independent, its Gross Domestic Product was just 2.7 trillion rupees, accounting for 3% of the world's total GDP. According to the latest data by National Statistical Office, "the GDP at current prices in the year 2020-21 is estimated to attain a level of Rs 195.86 lakh crore, as against Rs 203.51 lakh crore in 2019-20, showing a growth rate of -3.8%". [1 lakh crore = 1 trillion]

Here is a look at some key events that changed the shape of the Indian economy. &nbsp;

<h2>1969: Why is this year important? &nbsp;</h2>

1960s were a decade when the country was going through its worst droughts. This led the nation to depend on western countries for food and grain supplies. It was in this period that Prime Minister Indira Gandhi realised the importance of making the country self-sufficient in food grains. Hence, the Green Revolution came into being.

Apart from that, the period holds significance as, during this phase, Mrs Gandhi had nationalised 14 biggest commercial banks "with deposits of over Rs 50 crores nationalised to serve better the needs of development of the economy in conformity with national policy objectives". &nbsp;

As per the Reserve Bank of India, on February 10, 1970, the Supreme Court held the Act void mainly on the grounds that it was discriminatory against the 14 banks and that the compensation proposed to be paid by the government was not fair. Hence, a fresh Ordinance was issued on February 14 which was later replaced by the Banking Companies (Acquisition and Transfer of Undertakings) Act, 1970.

<h2>1991: Liberalisation, privatisation and globalisation</h2>

The journey of the Indian economy is incomplete without this chapter. India had touched rock bottom and was in serious trouble. With the devaluation of the currency, rising fiscal deficit of the government (from 9% of GDP in 1980-81 to 10.4% in 1985-86 and 12.7% in 1990-91), India’s external debt nearly doubled from some $35 billion at the end of 1984-85 to $69 billion by the end of 1990-91.

The country's foreign exchange reserves had dried up to the point that India could barely finance three weeks worth of imports. The situation was so grim that the Indian government had to mortgage some 20 tonnes of gold for $240 million, just to keep the economy afloat.

On the political front, the Chandra Shekhar government gave way to another Congress government, as the party made a comeback after two years. Enter &nbsp;PV Narsimha Rao as prime minister and Manmohan Singh as finance minister. &nbsp;

Within weeks of assuming power, Rao and Singh announced a series of policies that changed the face of Indian economy-- liberalisation, privatisation and globalisation.

These reforms helped the country get freedom from the tough bureaucratic system and opened the doors for more opportunities and foreign financial inflows. Moreover, it led to the boom in stock markets. As per the official yearly data available from the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), Sensex ended at 1048.29 in 1990 and jumped to 1908.85 by 1991-end.

While India was celebrating the rise of its economy, there was someone who was benefitting from the loopholes. Enter Harshad Mehta. India's stock market history is incomplete without the story of this man. Mehta changed the whole liquidity market. India's biggest scam of around Rs 4,000 crore led to a market crash of nearly 13% in one day. &nbsp;

<h2>2007-2008: The global crisis: How India reacted</h2>

It was an epic financial and economic collapse that had cost many people their jobs, homes, and savings. The “Great Recession” had brought the whole of Wall Street to its knees. The period marked the largest bankruptcy in U.S. history-- the collapse of Lehman Brothers. While the other countries were facing the worst, how was India reacting to the global pressure? Economic growth in India during FY2008-09 stood at 6.7%. Reportedly, India was less impacted because the exports accounted for just 15% of the GDP.

But, what came in as a surprise was the stimulus package announced by the Manmohan Singh administration. In December 2008, the government decided to seek approval for an additional plan expenditure of Rs 200 billion. "The government also infused about Rs 3 trillion into the system for public spending through a range of measures such as lowering tax and reduction of key rates by the Reserve Bank of India", stated an Economic Times report.

Moreover, this package did not go well for the government. "My government was punished in the 2014 elections after we spent more money in 2009 as part of a stimulus package. Due to this, we had to violate fiscal consolidation norms. The inflation went up to 14% and the rupee lost its value. Finally, people rejected our government", P Chidambaram, the finance minister at the time, was quoted as saying.

Apart from the economy, the Sensex tumbled from more than 20,000 points in Dec 2007 to a little over 9,000 (lowest) in mid-early 2009, before bouncing back to 17,000 in the same year.

<h2>2016: Demonitisation</h2>

After eight years, the word "demonetisation" was introduced in the annals of India’s economic history. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 8 of that year declared that Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes would not be legal tender. The announcement shook the country, almost everyone from a small vendor to a high-profile businessman was affected. Sensex crashed nearly 1,689 points and Nifty plunged by over 541 points due to the government’s move to withdraw notes of higher denominations.

Just months after demonetisation, the Rajya Sabha (Upper House) passed a crucial bill on Goods and Services Tax (GST). However, at that time, the markets didn't react much and remained mostly flat on the upper side.

<h2>2020: Virus hits the economy</h2>

But, after nearly three years, the country witnessed another jolt: the coronavirus pandemic. According to a report by Azim Premji University, the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic pushed 23 crore people below the poverty line (below the national minimum wage threshold of Rs. 375 per day as recommended by the Anoop Satpathy Committee). The report said there has been a rise of 15% in poverty in rural India and a rise of 20% in urban India during the last one pandemic year.

However, after the second wave, it is still unclear how deep the impact of the pandemic would be on the country's economy. Despite that, the Sensex touched an all-time high of 55,000 and Nifty at 16,529, giving hopes for better and improved days ahead. &nbsp;

From agrarian crisis to privatisation; demonetisation to the introduction of Goods and Service Tax (GST), from stock markets touching new highs to digitisation; independent India has seen many an economic upheaval.

From agrarian crisis to privatisation; demonetisation to the introduction of Goods and Service Tax (GST), from stock markets touching new highs to digitisation; independent India has seen many an economic upheaval. Was it for good? Did the decisions taken by various governments really help the Indian economy grow? Did India manage to become the golden nation its freedom fighters had dreamt of? The answer to these remains locked in history books and research papers. In 1947, when India became independent, its Gross Domestic Product was just 2.7 trillion rupees, accounting for 3% of the world's total GDP. According to the latest data by National Statistical Office, "the GDP at current prices in the year 2020-21 is estimated to attain a level of Rs 195.86 lakh crore, as against Rs 203.51 lakh crore in 2019-20, showing a growth rate of -3.8%". [1 lakh crore = 1 trillion] Here is a look at some key events that changed the shape of the Indian economy. 1969: Why is this year important? 1960s were a decade when the country was going through its worst droughts. This led the nation to depend on western countries for food and grain supplies. It was in this period that Prime Minister Indira Gandhi realised the importance of making the country self-sufficient in food grains. Hence, the Green Revolution came into being. Apart from that, the period holds significance as, during this phase, Mrs Gandhi had nationalised 14 biggest commercial banks "with deposits of over Rs 50 crores nationalised to serve better the needs of development of the economy in conformity with national policy objectives". As per the Reserve Bank of India, on February 10, 1970, the Supreme Court held the Act void mainly on the grounds that it was discriminatory against the 14 banks and that the compensation proposed to be paid by the government was not fair. Hence, a fresh Ordinance was issued on February 14 which was later replaced by the Banking Companies (Acquisition and Transfer of Undertakings) Act, 1970. 1991: Liberalisation, privatisation and globalisation The journey of the Indian economy is incomplete without this chapter. India had touched rock bottom and was in serious trouble. With the devaluation of the currency, rising fiscal deficit of the government (from 9% of GDP in 1980-81 to 10.4% in 1985-86 and 12.7% in 1990-91), India’s external debt nearly doubled from some $35 billion at the end of 1984-85 to $69 billion by the end of 1990-91. The country's foreign exchange reserves had dried up to the point that India could barely finance three weeks worth of imports. The situation was so grim that the Indian government had to mortgage some 20 tonnes of gold for $240 million, just to keep the economy afloat. On the political front, the Chandra Shekhar government gave way to another Congress government, as the party made a comeback after two years. Enter PV Narsimha Rao as prime minister and Manmohan Singh as finance minister. Within weeks of assuming power, Rao and Singh announced a series of policies that changed the face of Indian economy-- liberalisation, privatisation and globalisation. These reforms helped the country get freedom from the tough bureaucratic system and opened the doors for more opportunities and foreign financial inflows. Moreover, it led to the boom in stock markets. As per the official yearly data available from the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), Sensex ended at 1048.29 in 1990 and jumped to 1908.85 by 1991-end. While India was celebrating the rise of its economy, there was someone who was benefitting from the loopholes. Enter Harshad Mehta. India's stock market history is incomplete without the story of this man. Mehta changed the whole liquidity market. India's biggest scam of around Rs 4,000 crore led to a market crash of nearly 13% in one day. 2007-2008: The global crisis: How India reacted It was an epic financial and economic collapse that had cost many people their jobs, homes, and savings. The “Great Recession” had brought the whole of Wall Street to its knees. The period marked the largest bankruptcy in U.S. history-- the collapse of Lehman Brothers. While the other countries were facing the worst, how was India reacting to the global pressure? Economic growth in India during FY2008-09 stood at 6.7%. Reportedly, India was less impacted because the exports accounted for just 15% of the GDP. But, what came in as a surprise was the stimulus package announced by the Manmohan Singh administration. In December 2008, the government decided to seek approval for an additional plan expenditure of Rs 200 billion. "The government also infused about Rs 3 trillion into the system for public spending through a range of measures such as lowering tax and reduction of key rates by the Reserve Bank of India", stated an Economic Times report. Moreover, this package did not go well for the government. "My government was punished in the 2014 elections after we spent more money in 2009 as part of a stimulus package. Due to this, we had to violate fiscal consolidation norms. The inflation went up to 14% and the rupee lost its value. Finally, people rejected our government", P Chidambaram, the finance minister at the time, was quoted as saying. Apart from the economy, the Sensex tumbled from more than 20,000 points in Dec 2007 to a little over 9,000 (lowest) in mid-early 2009, before bouncing back to 17,000 in the same year. 2016: Demonitisation After eight years, the word "demonetisation" was introduced in the annals of India’s economic history. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 8 of that year declared that Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes would not be legal tender. The announcement shook the country, almost everyone from a small vendor to a high-profile businessman was affected. Sensex crashed nearly 1,689 points and Nifty plunged by over 541 points due to the government’s move to withdraw notes of higher denominations. Just months after demonetisation, the Rajya Sabha (Upper House) passed a crucial bill on Goods and Services Tax (GST). However, at that time, the markets didn't react much and remained mostly flat on the upper side. 2020: Virus hits the economy But, after nearly three years, the country witnessed another jolt: the coronavirus pandemic. According to a report by Azim Premji University, the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic pushed 23 crore people below the poverty line (below the national minimum wage threshold of Rs. 375 per day as recommended by the Anoop Satpathy Committee). The report said there has been a rise of 15% in poverty in rural India and a rise of 20% in urban India during the last one pandemic year. However, after the second wave, it is still unclear how deep the impact of the pandemic would be on the country's economy. Despite that, the Sensex touched an all-time high of 55,000 and Nifty at 16,529, giving hopes for better and improved days ahead.

Independence Day: Events that transformed India’s economy

 New Delhi [India], August 14 (ANI): Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat on Saturday hailed the "undying spirit of sportsmanship" of para-athletes and wished the Indian contingent luck for the upcoming Tokyo Paralympics. The Tokyo Paralympic Games is scheduled to be held between August 24 and September 5. India will start its campaign on August 27 with men`s and women`s archery events."My dear countrymen on behalf of the Indian Defence Services, I wish the Indian contingent all the very best for the upcoming Tokyo Paralympics 2020. The talent and resolve of Team India is a testament to the undying spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie," Bipin Rawat said in a video posted on the Indian Army`s Twitter handle."Such persons with special abilities who have overcome challenges to prove themselves even in the field of sports need special recognition. They have proven that all obstacles can be overcome and there is no defined limit to the human body, mind and spirit," he added.He is confident that the Indian para-athletes will put up a good show in the Tokyo Games. "I am confident that the blood and sweat put in by the athletes will show results in the sports arena. The journey and destination are equally important and the grateful nation conveys good wishes for a record-breaking Paralympics," he said.Deepa Malik, the Rio Paralympics silver medallist, appreciated the gesture by Bipin Rawat for the para-athletes. "Wishes coming from you will instill great motivation and sense of discipline in Para Athletes to focus on their best performance at #Tokyo2020. I, as President of @ParalympicIndia I thank you for extending your good wishes," Deepa tweeted.Meanwhile, the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) said it is a matter of great pride and honour for the Indian team to receive wishes from General Bipin Rawat.This time a record number of 54 para-athletes in 9 different divisions are participating in the Tokyo2020 Paralympic Games. Thangavelu Mariyappan, Rio 2016 Gold Medal winner, will be the flag bearer of India while Gursharan Singh shall be the Chef de Mission of the Indian team. (ANI) 

New Delhi [India], August 14 (ANI): Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat on Saturday hailed the "undying spirit of sportsmanship" of para-athletes and wished the Indian contingent luck for the upcoming Tokyo Paralympics.

New Delhi [India], August 14 (ANI): Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat on Saturday hailed the "undying spirit of sportsmanship" of para-athletes and wished the Indian contingent luck for the upcoming Tokyo Paralympics. The Tokyo Paralympic Games is scheduled to be held between August 24 and September 5. India will start its campaign on August 27 with men`s and women`s archery events."My dear countrymen on behalf of the Indian Defence Services, I wish the Indian contingent all the very best for the upcoming Tokyo Paralympics 2020. The talent and resolve of Team India is a testament to the undying spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie," Bipin Rawat said in a video posted on the Indian Army`s Twitter handle."Such persons with special abilities who have overcome challenges to prove themselves even in the field of sports need special recognition. They have proven that all obstacles can be overcome and there is no defined limit to the human body, mind and spirit," he added.He is confident that the Indian para-athletes will put up a good show in the Tokyo Games. "I am confident that the blood and sweat put in by the athletes will show results in the sports arena. The journey and destination are equally important and the grateful nation conveys good wishes for a record-breaking Paralympics," he said.Deepa Malik, the Rio Paralympics silver medallist, appreciated the gesture by Bipin Rawat for the para-athletes. "Wishes coming from you will instill great motivation and sense of discipline in Para Athletes to focus on their best performance at #Tokyo2020. I, as President of @ParalympicIndia I thank you for extending your good wishes," Deepa tweeted.Meanwhile, the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) said it is a matter of great pride and honour for the Indian team to receive wishes from General Bipin Rawat.This time a record number of 54 para-athletes in 9 different divisions are participating in the Tokyo2020 Paralympic Games. Thangavelu Mariyappan, Rio 2016 Gold Medal winner, will be the flag bearer of India while Gursharan Singh shall be the Chef de Mission of the Indian team. (ANI)

They''ve proven all obstacles can be overcome: CDS Gen Rawat wishes luck to Indian contingent for Paralympics

Earlier this year, when India was battling a "once-in-a-century crisis" in the form of the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic, two aid groups in the US—led by people of Indian origin—raised more than $25 million towards assisting the country's strained health care system.

In the UK, three Hindu temples raised more than 6,00,000 pounds ($8,30,000). Sikhs, similarly, donated $700-$2,000 to each of dozens of people in need of oxygen cylinders back home.

For decades now, India's large and vibrant diaspora has been leveraging its wealth, political clout and expertise to steer the country's economic growth, while seamlessly integrating with the countries of their adoption.

The largest expat community in the world, nearly 18 million Indians are living outside their homeland as of 2020, according to the United Nations, with United Arab Emirates (UAE), the US and Saudi Arabia hosting the largest Indian diaspora populations. India has also retained its position as the largest recipient of remittances- money transfers from non-resident Indians (NRIs) and People of Indian Origin (PIOs) employed outside the country to family, friends or relatives living in India

According to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2020/04/22/world-bank-predicts-sharpest-decline-of-remittances-in-recent-history)">World Bank report</a>, India's remittances in 2020 reached over $83 billion, despite a pandemic that pushed global economic growth off its course. The country had received $83.3 billion in remittances in 2019.&nbsp;

In contrast, China—which ranks second—received $59.5 billion in remittances in 2020 against $68.3 billion the previous year.

<img alt="Chart" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fd4a839f-a639-4044-a8fe-fd80f03cf84e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Chart.jpeg" />

India’s large diaspora is distributed across a number of major countries, with the UAE (3.5 million), the US (2.7 million) and Saudi Arabia (2.5 million) hosting the largest numbers of migrants from the South Asian nation.

"In whichever part of the world Indians went, they not only retained their Indianness but also integrated the lifestyle of that nation," Prime Minister Narendra Modi had <a href="https://www.narendramodi.in/text-of-pm-s-address-at-inaugural-session-of-first-pio-parliamentarian-conference-09-01-2018--538453">said</a> in 2018 at the Pravasi Bhartiya Divas, the government-run convention for expatriate outreach. He called the diaspora "true and permanent ambassadors" of the country.

Apart from promoting and upholding the rich Indian culture and interests on foreign lands, the diaspora has also emerged as a soft power asset in New Delhi's scheme of things.

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Yoga diplomacy

Yoga has contributed proactively towards bolstering India's image as a spiritual superpower. Ever since the United Nations announced June 21 as the 'International Day of Yoga', mass yoga practices and awareness camps have become prevalent across the global capitals, with the Indian missions proactively promoting the ancient science, that integrates physical and spiritual disciplines. Indian yoga instructors and practitioners abroad have played a key role over decades in popularising the ancient practice abroad.

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Yoga in the heart of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NewYork?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NewYork</a>! <a href="https://twitter.com/TimesSquareNYC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TimesSquareNYC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IDY2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IDY2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YogaForWellness?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YogaForWellness</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YogaDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YogaDay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YogaForAll?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YogaForAll</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YogaDay2021?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YogaDay2021</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AzadiKaAmritMahotsav?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AzadiKaAmritMahotsav</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SolsticeTSq?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SolsticeTSq</a><a href="https://twitter.com/moayush?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@moayush</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianDiplomacy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianDiplomacy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/iccr_hq?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iccr_hq</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIB_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DDNational?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DDNational</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DDNewslive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DDNewslive</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DDNewsHindi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DDNewsHindi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DDIndialive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DDIndialive</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ANI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ani_digital?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ani_digital</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PTI_News</a> <a href="https://t.co/rNiuZRikkD">pic.twitter.com/rNiuZRikkD</a>
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From government to Google

The story of Kamala Harris ascending to the vice presidency also emerged simultaneously with the rise in her popularity among the large Indian diaspora in the US, which proudly embraced her Tamil roots.

Similarly, the ancestors of Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, son of former PM Anerood Jugnauth, had migrated to the island-nation from the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, while the South American country of Suriname has Indian-origin Chandrikapersad (Chan) Santokhi as its president.

Silicon Valley—the home of several big, innovative US tech companies—now hosts the highest concentration of Indian-Americans. From Google's Sundar Pichai to Microsoft's Satya Nadella and Adobe's Shantanu Narayen, Indian-Americans have risen up to occupy the high positions at global tech companies, and continue to take giant strides in the banking, finance and other sectors too.

&nbsp;

<img alt="Residents walk past a poster of Kamala Harris at her ancestral village of Thulasendrapuram in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu on November 3, 2020 - AFP Photo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b2711ae7-12dd-4809-be0b-9261f5b3ea54" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/thumbnail_Image%2002.jpeg" />

&nbsp;

Shaping policies

One of the richest minorities in many developed countries, the Indian diaspora, has, on several occasions, helped in lobbying for favourable terms regarding New Delhi's interests and exercising greater control over policy making. The presence of over 9.3 million expats across the several Gulf states has also helped India in buttressing its global image, amid New Delhi's growing strategic interests in West Asia. Indian nationals also make up the Gulf states' largest expatriate community, putting the diaspora at the centre of immigration and labour policy-making.

Cinema connect

The increase in the popularity of Indian films among the Indian diaspora community has also contributed to rekindling "Indianness" among this demographic. These cultural exports—many of which are increasingly portraying the diasporic Indian life—serve as a medium to explore a common bond among the strangers in another country.

&nbsp;

<img alt="ndian actors Rana Daggubati and Tamannaah Bhatia participate in India Day Parade in New York in 2017 - Twitter photo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f139c4e9-f8db-41f0-9dfc-1dfe6d6bdab8" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Image%2003.jpeg" />

&nbsp;

As India enters her 75th year of independence, the Indian diaspora's role as a catalyst for economic and social development—both in the host country and the country of birth—remains noteworthy.&nbsp;

The largest transnational population is not just keeping the Indian values within itself alive, but also constituting the cog in the wheels of India's progress, from all the corners of the world.

Earlier this year, when India was battling a "once-in-a-century crisis" in the form of the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic, two aid groups in the US—led by people of Indian origin—raised more than $25 million towards assisting the country's strained health care system.

Earlier this year, when India was battling a "once-in-a-century crisis" in the form of the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic, two aid groups in the US—led by people of Indian origin—raised more than $25 million towards assisting the country's strained health care system. In the UK, three Hindu temples raised more than 6,00,000 pounds ($8,30,000). Sikhs, similarly, donated $700-$2,000 to each of dozens of people in need of oxygen cylinders back home. For decades now, India's large and vibrant diaspora has been leveraging its wealth, political clout and expertise to steer the country's economic growth, while seamlessly integrating with the countries of their adoption. The largest expat community in the world, nearly 18 million Indians are living outside their homeland as of 2020, according to the United Nations, with United Arab Emirates (UAE), the US and Saudi Arabia hosting the largest Indian diaspora populations. India has also retained its position as the largest recipient of remittances- money transfers from non-resident Indians (NRIs) and People of Indian Origin (PIOs) employed outside the country to family, friends or relatives living in India According to a World Bank report, India's remittances in 2020 reached over $83 billion, despite a pandemic that pushed global economic growth off its course. The country had received $83.3 billion in remittances in 2019. In contrast, China—which ranks second—received $59.5 billion in remittances in 2020 against $68.3 billion the previous year. India’s large diaspora is distributed across a number of major countries, with the UAE (3.5 million), the US (2.7 million) and Saudi Arabia (2.5 million) hosting the largest numbers of migrants from the South Asian nation. "In whichever part of the world Indians went, they not only retained their Indianness but also integrated the lifestyle of that nation," Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said in 2018 at the Pravasi Bhartiya Divas, the government-run convention for expatriate outreach. He called the diaspora "true and permanent ambassadors" of the country. Apart from promoting and upholding the rich Indian culture and interests on foreign lands, the diaspora has also emerged as a soft power asset in New Delhi's scheme of things. Yoga diplomacy Yoga has contributed proactively towards bolstering India's image as a spiritual superpower. Ever since the United Nations announced June 21 as the 'International Day of Yoga', mass yoga practices and awareness camps have become prevalent across the global capitals, with the Indian missions proactively promoting the ancient science, that integrates physical and spiritual disciplines. Indian yoga instructors and practitioners abroad have played a key role over decades in popularising the ancient practice abroad. Yoga in the heart of #NewYork! @TimesSquareNYC #IDY2021 #YogaForWellness #YogaDay #YogaForAll #YogaDay2021 #AzadiKaAmritMahotsav #SolsticeTSq@moayush @IndianDiplomacy @MEAIndia @iccr_hq @PIB_India @DDNational @DDNewslive @DDNewsHindi @DDIndialive @ANI @ani_digital @PTI_News pic.twitter.com/rNiuZRikkD — India in New York (@IndiainNewYork) June 20, 2021 × From government to Google The story of Kamala Harris ascending to the vice presidency also emerged simultaneously with the rise in her popularity among the large Indian diaspora in the US, which proudly embraced her Tamil roots. Similarly, the ancestors of Mauritian Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth, son of former PM Anerood Jugnauth, had migrated to the island-nation from the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, while the South American country of Suriname has Indian-origin Chandrikapersad (Chan) Santokhi as its president. Silicon Valley—the home of several big, innovative US tech companies—now hosts the highest concentration of Indian-Americans. From Google's Sundar Pichai to Microsoft's Satya Nadella and Adobe's Shantanu Narayen, Indian-Americans have risen up to occupy the high positions at global tech companies, and continue to take giant strides in the banking, finance and other sectors too. Shaping policies One of the richest minorities in many developed countries, the Indian diaspora, has, on several occasions, helped in lobbying for favourable terms regarding New Delhi's interests and exercising greater control over policy making. The presence of over 9.3 million expats across the several Gulf states has also helped India in buttressing its global image, amid New Delhi's growing strategic interests in West Asia. Indian nationals also make up the Gulf states' largest expatriate community, putting the diaspora at the centre of immigration and labour policy-making. Cinema connect The increase in the popularity of Indian films among the Indian diaspora community has also contributed to rekindling "Indianness" among this demographic. These cultural exports—many of which are increasingly portraying the diasporic Indian life—serve as a medium to explore a common bond among the strangers in another country. As India enters her 75th year of independence, the Indian diaspora's role as a catalyst for economic and social development—both in the host country and the country of birth—remains noteworthy. The largest transnational population is not just keeping the Indian values within itself alive, but also constituting the cog in the wheels of India's progress, from all the corners of the world.

India Independence: Diaspora power - From remittances to diplomacy, overseas Indians script India's success story

India celebrating its 75th year of independence on August 15, 2021.

After years of brutal British tyranny, our compatriots finally breathed free air in 1947.

On this date, Jawaharlal Nehru gave his first public speech in free India.

However, where was Mahatma Gandhi on that particular day?

Even as the country celebrated its hard-won independence on August 15, 1947, Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation, was fasting in Bengal to put a stop to the Hindu-Muslim violence.

He was on a hunger strike in Kolkata, distant from the hard-won independence celebrations in Delhi.

When the day of independence finally arrived on August 15, 1947, it was celebrated across the country.

In Calcutta, however, Mahatma Gandhi was concerned and working hard to put a stop to the bloodshed brought on by the division.

Mahatma Gandhi had stated, "To me, peace between Hindus and Muslims is more essential than the proclamation of independence."

Mahatma Gandhi wanted to go to Noakhali, which is now part of Bangladesh because it had become a gruesome hotspot of sectarian violence.

However, several local leaders persuaded Mahatma Gandhi to remain in Calcutta.

Local authorities informed Mahatma Gandhi that if he could restore peace to Calcutta, the entire Bengal across the dividing line would return to normality and harmony.

(With inputs from agencies)

India celebrating its 75th year of independence on August 15, 2021. After years of brutal British tyranny, our compatriots finally breathed free air in 1947. On this date, Jawaharlal Nehru gave his first public speech in free India.

India celebrating its 75th year of independence on August 15, 2021. After years of brutal British tyranny, our compatriots finally breathed free air in 1947. On this date, Jawaharlal Nehru gave his first public speech in free India. However, where was Mahatma Gandhi on that particular day? Even as the country celebrated its hard-won independence on August 15, 1947, Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation, was fasting in Bengal to put a stop to the Hindu-Muslim violence. He was on a hunger strike in Kolkata, distant from the hard-won independence celebrations in Delhi. When the day of independence finally arrived on August 15, 1947, it was celebrated across the country. In Calcutta, however, Mahatma Gandhi was concerned and working hard to put a stop to the bloodshed brought on by the division. Mahatma Gandhi had stated, "To me, peace between Hindus and Muslims is more essential than the proclamation of independence." Mahatma Gandhi wanted to go to Noakhali, which is now part of Bangladesh because it had become a gruesome hotspot of sectarian violence. However, several local leaders persuaded Mahatma Gandhi to remain in Calcutta. Local authorities informed Mahatma Gandhi that if he could restore peace to Calcutta, the entire Bengal across the dividing line would return to normality and harmony. (With inputs from agencies)

Mahatma Gandhi could not celebrate the first Independence Day in Delhi. Here's why

India, Germany, Qatar, Turkey and several other nations have reaffirmed to not recognise any government in Afghanistan that is imposed through the use of military force and called for an immediate end to violence and attacks in the war-torn country.

A statement issued by Qatar on Friday following two separate meetings on Afghanistan in Doha said the participating countries agreed that the Afghan peace process needs to be accelerated as a matter of "great urgency".

The statement came as the Taliban continued its onslaught capturing several key cities in the last couple of days including Kandahar and Herat, Afghanistan's second and third largest cities while significantly expanding its territorial control across the country.

It said the participants urged the Taliban and the Afghan government to build trust and accelerate efforts to reach a political settlement and comprehensive ceasefire as quickly as possible.

The first meeting on August 19 was joined by the representatives of China, Uzbekistan, the US, Pakistan, the UK, Qatar, the UN and the European Union, the Qatari foreign ministry said.

The second meeting on August 12 was attended by representatives of Germany, India, Norway, Qatar, Tajikistan, Turkey and Turkmenistan, the US and the UN, it said.

J P Singh, the Joint Secretary in the Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran division in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), represented India at the second meeting hosted by Qatar.

"Participants raised grave concerns about reports from across Afghanistan concerning continued violence, large numbers of civilian casualties and extra-judicial killings, widespread and credible allegations of human rights violations, all attacks (ground and air) against provincial capitals and cities," the Qatari foreign ministry said.

It said the countries reaffirmed that they will not recognise any government in Afghanistan that is imposed through the use of military force.

"Participants committed to assisting in the reconstruction of Afghanistan once a viable political settlement is reached following good faith negotiations between the two sides," the statement said.

The countries also mentioned the converging statements from both sides on "guiding principles" for a political settlement such as inclusive governance, respect for human rights, including the rights of women and minorities, a mechanism to deliver a representative government, a commitment to not allow any individuals or groups to use the soil of Afghanistan to threaten the security of other countries and respect for international law.

"Participants called on all Afghan sides to act by these principles and build on them in the future political settlement," the statement said.

India, Germany, Qatar, Turkey and several other nations have reaffirmed to not recognise any government in Afghanistan that is imposed through the use of military force and called for an immediate end to violence and attacks in the war-torn country.

India, Germany, Qatar, Turkey and several other nations have reaffirmed to not recognise any government in Afghanistan that is imposed through the use of military force and called for an immediate end to violence and attacks in the war-torn country. A statement issued by Qatar on Friday following two separate meetings on Afghanistan in Doha said the participating countries agreed that the Afghan peace process needs to be accelerated as a matter of "great urgency". The statement came as the Taliban continued its onslaught capturing several key cities in the last couple of days including Kandahar and Herat, Afghanistan's second and third largest cities while significantly expanding its territorial control across the country. It said the participants urged the Taliban and the Afghan government to build trust and accelerate efforts to reach a political settlement and comprehensive ceasefire as quickly as possible. The first meeting on August 19 was joined by the representatives of China, Uzbekistan, the US, Pakistan, the UK, Qatar, the UN and the European Union, the Qatari foreign ministry said. The second meeting on August 12 was attended by representatives of Germany, India, Norway, Qatar, Tajikistan, Turkey and Turkmenistan, the US and the UN, it said. J P Singh, the Joint Secretary in the Pakistan-Afghanistan-Iran division in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), represented India at the second meeting hosted by Qatar. "Participants raised grave concerns about reports from across Afghanistan concerning continued violence, large numbers of civilian casualties and extra-judicial killings, widespread and credible allegations of human rights violations, all attacks (ground and air) against provincial capitals and cities," the Qatari foreign ministry said. It said the countries reaffirmed that they will not recognise any government in Afghanistan that is imposed through the use of military force. "Participants committed to assisting in the reconstruction of Afghanistan once a viable political settlement is reached following good faith negotiations between the two sides," the statement said. The countries also mentioned the converging statements from both sides on "guiding principles" for a political settlement such as inclusive governance, respect for human rights, including the rights of women and minorities, a mechanism to deliver a representative government, a commitment to not allow any individuals or groups to use the soil of Afghanistan to threaten the security of other countries and respect for international law. "Participants called on all Afghan sides to act by these principles and build on them in the future political settlement," the statement said.

India, several other nations reaffirm not to recognise govt imposed through use of force in Afghanistan

In a relay race, all runners contribute equally, but the last runner has to be the best and the most reliable. Rocketry is also quite similar. A rocket consists of multiple stages(sets of engines) that are stacked vertically.&nbsp;

Each engine has a different level of performance and contributes to getting the payload to space. Once the respective engine completes its task, it detaches itself from the rocket and lets the next one continue the journey.&nbsp;

Towards the end, the final engine takes the satellite to its determined orbit and accomplishes the mission. The latest failure of India’s GSLV rocket’s Cryogenic engine(third and final stage) brings the crucial Cryogenic engine reliability issue to light.&nbsp;

The development of a cryogenic engine has unique design challenges, as it is fueled by liquid Hydrogen stored at&nbsp;

-253 deg C and liquid Oxygen stored at -195 deg C in its tanks. To store these cryogenic fluids, special multi-layer insulation is provided for the tanks and other structures.

Looking at the history of the GSLV rocket(without considering the 4-ton lifter GSLV Mk3), this is a launch vehicle that has had a considerable failure rate, when compared to ISRO’s excellent track record. This variant (GSLV or GSLV Mk2) has had 4 failures in 14 flights. While this number might seem minuscule when compared to International standards and the track record of foreign agencies, it slightly upsets ISRO’s stellar success rate.&nbsp;

In comparison, ISRO most reliable workhorse rocket, the PSLV(which doesn’t have a Cryogenic engine) has had only 2 failures in its history of 53 flights. Of course, Cryogenics has always been a tough technology to master and the GSLV is the first Indian rocket with a Cryogenic Engine. It was in 2001 that the GSLV had its first flight. &nbsp;For context, India’s heaviest rocket GSLV Mk3(capability to lift 4 tons) has delivered total success in all of its four flights to date. While the credit for the PSLV and GSLV Mk3 missions belong entirely to the Indian Space Agency, it is important to introspect on the GSLV vehicle that has been posing a technological challenge.&nbsp;

According to Former ISRO Chairman Dr G. Madhavan Nair, the GSLV that faced a Cryogenic engine ignition issue had a long developmental history. “This GSLV variant was conceived in the 1970s when we didn’t have large rocket boosters. While some of the technology in this rocket is similar to that of the highly reliable PSLV, the Cryogenic engine is based on a highly complex Russian design. The five initial flights of this rocket used an off-the-shelf purchase Russian Cryogenic engine. But later, we developed a Cryogenic engine based on the complex Russian design” he told Zee Media.&nbsp;

He elaborated by recalling that the disintegration of the erstwhile USSR had impacted India’s engine deal with the Soviets. Instead of providing the engines and related technology transfer(as agreed upon), Russia had provided only the five engines. This meant that Indian scientists had to learn, experiment and develop modern control systems for the complex Russian Engine, that was developed in the late 1960s. Notably, this Russian engine was also more technologically complicated than its American and European counterparts. Dr Nair also added that having five liquid-fuel boosters and one solid-fuel motor in the first stage on the GSLV increased the complexity of that rocket as a whole.&nbsp;

While the Cryogenic engine modelled after the Russian technology was very complex, India also eventually developed its Cryogenic engine called C25. It is the C25 that has flown as the third and final stage of the GSLV Mk3. To ISRO’s credit, the Mk3 rocket has delivered successes in all four flights. Some of the technology on the Mk3 rocket are scaled-up versions of the highly reliable PSLV rocket. When Zee Media asked if the reliable Indian Cryogenic engine on GSLV Mk3 could be scaled down for GSLV Mk2, Dr Nair replied in the affirmative. However, he stated that it would be a cost-intensive and time-consuming process that could take at least six years for the process of development, qualification and testing.&nbsp;

Given India’s limited choice of launch vehicles - PSLV, GSLV and GSLV Mk3 and the upcoming SSLV, ISRO must rectify the troubles on the GSLV rocket and its Cryogenic engine. This is necessary given that an important NASA-ISRO mission called NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar) launch is planned on this very vehicle. Chairman ISRO, Dr K. Sivan had earlier told Zee Media that this NISAR mission would fly by late 2022 or early 2023 on a GSLV Mk2 rocket from Sriharikota. Given that the GSLV fills the gap between the PSLV and the GSLV Mk3, it is a significant vehicle in India’s stable, with prospects for commercial use. So far, ISRO only flies the PSLV to carry commercial satellites that weigh less than 1.5 tons. Perfecting the GSLV Cryogenic engine would only increase India’s gains from commercial launches, by carrying foreign satellites weighing up to 2.5 tons to a higher orbit.&nbsp;

According to a launch vehicle expert who spoke to Zee Media, the Cryogenic engine(topmost stage) must have one notch higher reliability than the second stage, just like the second stage must have higher reliability than the first. The expert, who wished to be unnamed, adds that failures could also happen due to minor errors like a loose bolt or a missing pin or even non-conformances at the manufacturing level. Thus, it was emphasized that ISRO work on establishing stricter quality controls, review protocols and double-checks to avoid such errors. It was added that the rectification needed to be done at respective levels, depending on what exactly led to the Cryogenic failure on Thursday(August 12th).&nbsp; 
 
Like a successful relay team gets the combination of four runners right, ISRO must master the technology of each of its rocket engines, have a stable of highly-reliable rockets that have varied payload carrying capacities - SSLV(500kg), GSLV MK2 (2.5ton) and GSLV Mk3(4ton and beyond).

In a relay race, all runners contribute equally, but the last runner has to be the best and the most reliable. Rocketry is also quite similar. A rocket consists of multiple stages(sets of engines) that are stacked vertically.

In a relay race, all runners contribute equally, but the last runner has to be the best and the most reliable. Rocketry is also quite similar. A rocket consists of multiple stages(sets of engines) that are stacked vertically. Each engine has a different level of performance and contributes to getting the payload to space. Once the respective engine completes its task, it detaches itself from the rocket and lets the next one continue the journey. Towards the end, the final engine takes the satellite to its determined orbit and accomplishes the mission. The latest failure of India’s GSLV rocket’s Cryogenic engine(third and final stage) brings the crucial Cryogenic engine reliability issue to light. The development of a cryogenic engine has unique design challenges, as it is fueled by liquid Hydrogen stored at -253 deg C and liquid Oxygen stored at -195 deg C in its tanks. To store these cryogenic fluids, special multi-layer insulation is provided for the tanks and other structures. Looking at the history of the GSLV rocket(without considering the 4-ton lifter GSLV Mk3), this is a launch vehicle that has had a considerable failure rate, when compared to ISRO’s excellent track record. This variant (GSLV or GSLV Mk2) has had 4 failures in 14 flights. While this number might seem minuscule when compared to International standards and the track record of foreign agencies, it slightly upsets ISRO’s stellar success rate. In comparison, ISRO most reliable workhorse rocket, the PSLV(which doesn’t have a Cryogenic engine) has had only 2 failures in its history of 53 flights. Of course, Cryogenics has always been a tough technology to master and the GSLV is the first Indian rocket with a Cryogenic Engine. It was in 2001 that the GSLV had its first flight. For context, India’s heaviest rocket GSLV Mk3(capability to lift 4 tons) has delivered total success in all of its four flights to date. While the credit for the PSLV and GSLV Mk3 missions belong entirely to the Indian Space Agency, it is important to introspect on the GSLV vehicle that has been posing a technological challenge. According to Former ISRO Chairman Dr G. Madhavan Nair, the GSLV that faced a Cryogenic engine ignition issue had a long developmental history. “This GSLV variant was conceived in the 1970s when we didn’t have large rocket boosters. While some of the technology in this rocket is similar to that of the highly reliable PSLV, the Cryogenic engine is based on a highly complex Russian design. The five initial flights of this rocket used an off-the-shelf purchase Russian Cryogenic engine. But later, we developed a Cryogenic engine based on the complex Russian design” he told Zee Media. He elaborated by recalling that the disintegration of the erstwhile USSR had impacted India’s engine deal with the Soviets. Instead of providing the engines and related technology transfer(as agreed upon), Russia had provided only the five engines. This meant that Indian scientists had to learn, experiment and develop modern control systems for the complex Russian Engine, that was developed in the late 1960s. Notably, this Russian engine was also more technologically complicated than its American and European counterparts. Dr Nair also added that having five liquid-fuel boosters and one solid-fuel motor in the first stage on the GSLV increased the complexity of that rocket as a whole. While the Cryogenic engine modelled after the Russian technology was very complex, India also eventually developed its Cryogenic engine called C25. It is the C25 that has flown as the third and final stage of the GSLV Mk3. To ISRO’s credit, the Mk3 rocket has delivered successes in all four flights. Some of the technology on the Mk3 rocket are scaled-up versions of the highly reliable PSLV rocket. When Zee Media asked if the reliable Indian Cryogenic engine on GSLV Mk3 could be scaled down for GSLV Mk2, Dr Nair replied in the affirmative. However, he stated that it would be a cost-intensive and time-consuming process that could take at least six years for the process of development, qualification and testing. Given India’s limited choice of launch vehicles - PSLV, GSLV and GSLV Mk3 and the upcoming SSLV, ISRO must rectify the troubles on the GSLV rocket and its Cryogenic engine. This is necessary given that an important NASA-ISRO mission called NISAR (NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar) launch is planned on this very vehicle. Chairman ISRO, Dr K. Sivan had earlier told Zee Media that this NISAR mission would fly by late 2022 or early 2023 on a GSLV Mk2 rocket from Sriharikota. Given that the GSLV fills the gap between the PSLV and the GSLV Mk3, it is a significant vehicle in India’s stable, with prospects for commercial use. So far, ISRO only flies the PSLV to carry commercial satellites that weigh less than 1.5 tons. Perfecting the GSLV Cryogenic engine would only increase India’s gains from commercial launches, by carrying foreign satellites weighing up to 2.5 tons to a higher orbit. According to a launch vehicle expert who spoke to Zee Media, the Cryogenic engine(topmost stage) must have one notch higher reliability than the second stage, just like the second stage must have higher reliability than the first. The expert, who wished to be unnamed, adds that failures could also happen due to minor errors like a loose bolt or a missing pin or even non-conformances at the manufacturing level. Thus, it was emphasized that ISRO work on establishing stricter quality controls, review protocols and double-checks to avoid such errors. It was added that the rectification needed to be done at respective levels, depending on what exactly led to the Cryogenic failure on Thursday(August 12th). Like a successful relay team gets the combination of four runners right, ISRO must master the technology of each of its rocket engines, have a stable of highly-reliable rockets that have varied payload carrying capacities - SSLV(500kg), GSLV MK2 (2.5ton) and GSLV Mk3(4ton and beyond).

ISRO mission failure shows the need for higher reliability in India’s GSLV Cryogenic Engine

The famous Mughal Gardens of Kashmir are all set to get the UNESCO World Heritage tag. The Jammu and Kashmir government has signed an MoU with a private firm for the conservation of the Six gardens in the valley.&nbsp;

With this tag, the government expects that tourism in the valley will get a boost and these gardens will be a must visit place. The department of Floriculture is working with various stakeholders for the conservation of these gardens. Many horticulturists, architects, historians and conservationists have been taken onboard for the conservation of these gardens.&nbsp;

<img alt="Mughal Gardens in Kashmir aim for UNESCO heritage tag" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3650dcd3-e825-46cd-bb02-6cc267671379" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/thumbnail_Image.jpeg" />

''If you see the Mughal Gardens, they are four centuries old and they are live gardens thronged by millions of tourists. Wear and tear will always be there so conservation works need to be done on a regular basis and the department has been actively doing it from time to time with due consultations with experts. Under their guidance we are conserving these places,'' said Javaid Masood, Floriculture Officer. "Once these sites are enlisted in the permanent list of world heritage sites, they will be must visit sites. They will be a common cultural site, a common heritage of humankind. When a site gets the tag of UNESCO, it's a big achievement and naturally tourist flow increases, it will bring a lot of benefits and promote tourism in Jammu and Kashmir."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/organ-donation-dropped-significantly-due-to-covid-19-experts-405192https://www.wionews.com/india-news/organ-donation-dropped-significantly-due-to-covid-19-experts-405192">Also read |&nbsp;Organ donation dropped significantly due to COVID-19: Experts</a>

The team from UNESCO can come to inspect these gardens anytime now. The floriculture department is now working hard to restore and conserve these gardens in the best possible way before the inspection team arrives.

''The department of floriculture has been continuously working on the conservation of the Mughal Gardens. Due to the efforts of the department, Six gardens of Kashmir are in the tentative list of heritage gardens of the world. We are on the path of improving their status of conservation. The government has hired a Mumbai based consultancy for completion of nominations in UNESCO Heritage list,'' Masood said.&nbsp;

If these Mughal gardens are enlisted in UNESCO heritage list, not only will it bring more tourists to Kashmir valley but will also put these sites on world map.

The famous Mughal Gardens of Kashmir are all set to get the UNESCO World Heritage tag. The Jammu and Kashmir government has signed an MoU with a private firm for the conservation of the Six gardens in the valley.

The famous Mughal Gardens of Kashmir are all set to get the UNESCO World Heritage tag. The Jammu and Kashmir government has signed an MoU with a private firm for the conservation of the Six gardens in the valley. With this tag, the government expects that tourism in the valley will get a boost and these gardens will be a must visit place. The department of Floriculture is working with various stakeholders for the conservation of these gardens. Many horticulturists, architects, historians and conservationists have been taken onboard for the conservation of these gardens. ''If you see the Mughal Gardens, they are four centuries old and they are live gardens thronged by millions of tourists. Wear and tear will always be there so conservation works need to be done on a regular basis and the department has been actively doing it from time to time with due consultations with experts. Under their guidance we are conserving these places,'' said Javaid Masood, Floriculture Officer. "Once these sites are enlisted in the permanent list of world heritage sites, they will be must visit sites. They will be a common cultural site, a common heritage of humankind. When a site gets the tag of UNESCO, it's a big achievement and naturally tourist flow increases, it will bring a lot of benefits and promote tourism in Jammu and Kashmir." Also read | Organ donation dropped significantly due to COVID-19: Experts The team from UNESCO can come to inspect these gardens anytime now. The floriculture department is now working hard to restore and conserve these gardens in the best possible way before the inspection team arrives. ''The department of floriculture has been continuously working on the conservation of the Mughal Gardens. Due to the efforts of the department, Six gardens of Kashmir are in the tentative list of heritage gardens of the world. We are on the path of improving their status of conservation. The government has hired a Mumbai based consultancy for completion of nominations in UNESCO Heritage list,'' Masood said. If these Mughal gardens are enlisted in UNESCO heritage list, not only will it bring more tourists to Kashmir valley but will also put these sites on world map.

Mughal Gardens in Kashmir aim for UNESCO heritage tag

Organ donation has less uptake in India, when compared to western nations. Covid-19 pandemic raging over the last 18 months, has further dwindled down the number of organ donations, say health experts. 
 
August 13 is observed as World Organ Donation Day every year to motivate people to pledge organ donation after death and to spread awareness and eliminate myths and fears regarding organ donation. 
 
During Covid pandemic lockdowns, fear of infection, and lack of awareness compounded the reduction in organ donation chances, the experts said. 
 
"The number of organ donations in our country has been very low in comparison to the western countries. Furthermore, there is a significant drop since the start of the pandemic, the reason being Covid recovered patients cannot donate immediately after recovering. Too much focus on Covid and the lack of awareness on organ donation are also the reason why this number has dropped significantly," Vishwanath S, HOD and Consultant - Nephrology, Transplant Physician, Manipal Hospitals, Bengaluru, told IANS. 
 
There are two ways to donate organs: a living donor -- a healthy person who donates one of a pair of organs such as the kidney or part of an organ such as the liver; and/or through Cadaveric donation -- when you harvest organs (heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, pancreas) from brain dead people, as well as tissue donation, meaning taking tissues (skin, corneas, tendons, bone) from brain dead as well as those whose heart has stopped, but in that case it has to be done with limited time period. 
 
A single cadaveric donor can give life to about six-nine recipients (two kidneys, liver, heart, lungs, pancreas, intestine, eyes and tissues). 
 
"Due to Covid-induced lockdowns and reduced traffic on the roads, accidents with consequent head injury and brain death related organ donors have reduced. On the other hand, even the recipients are unable to travel to transplant centres due to intra and interstate travel restrictions," Mukul Rastogi, Additional Director-Hepatology, Fortis Noida, told IANS. 
 
"There is also an apprehension regarding Covid status and potential transmission from deceased donors to recipients and healthcare providers. Similarly, there is a risk of recipients, live donors and the healthcare team inadvertently transmitting Covid to each other," he added. 
 
However, the doctors suggest that it is safe to donate after two-three months of Covid recovery. A complete vaccination before the process can make it safer, protecting both the donor and the recipient from the future infection of Covid. Even if they develop Covid, it will be very mild. 
 
"After the Covid pandemic, doctors have been extra cautious in the procedures of organ donation. It is safe to donate once you recover from Covid. Post-Covid, we assess whether there is any Covid-related involvement of the organs. If any person wants to donate organs post-recovery, we evaluate them completely. In cases when lungs are needed to be donated, we ensure there are no residual problems before donation," Vishwanath said. 
 
Moreover, with the availability of accurate tests (RT -PCR and antibody) for Covid with a rapid turnaround time (4-6 hours), it is possible to determine whether transplant can be safely performed, the doctors said. 
 
In India, every year almost 3.5 lakh people need some form of organ transplant but less than 11,000 transplants are carried out. The overall organ donation rate in India is quite low at around 0.52 per million population, compared with 36.07 donors per million in the US. 
 
The Cardiology Society of India reveals that over 50,000 patients need heart transplantation in a year but less than 250 actually get one. 
 
As per the Indian Society of Organ Transplantation, of the 21,395 kidneys transplanted in India between 1971 and 2015, only 783 were from cadaveric donors. Out of more than 50,000 people who need liver transplant, only 2,000 procedures are being done, according to Indian Society of Gastroenterology. 
 
"Organ donation in India needs to pick up the pace to match the humongous gap that is existing between patients who need organs and organ availability. As critical illnesses are on the rise, harvesting organs from deceased bodies and making it accessible to the one who needs should be the priority," D. Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman, AIG Hospitals, in Hyderabad, told IANS.

Organ donation has less uptake in India, when compared to western nations. Covid-19 pandemic raging over the last 18 months, has further dwindled down the number of organ donations, say health experts.

Organ donation has less uptake in India, when compared to western nations. Covid-19 pandemic raging over the last 18 months, has further dwindled down the number of organ donations, say health experts. August 13 is observed as World Organ Donation Day every year to motivate people to pledge organ donation after death and to spread awareness and eliminate myths and fears regarding organ donation. During Covid pandemic lockdowns, fear of infection, and lack of awareness compounded the reduction in organ donation chances, the experts said. "The number of organ donations in our country has been very low in comparison to the western countries. Furthermore, there is a significant drop since the start of the pandemic, the reason being Covid recovered patients cannot donate immediately after recovering. Too much focus on Covid and the lack of awareness on organ donation are also the reason why this number has dropped significantly," Vishwanath S, HOD and Consultant - Nephrology, Transplant Physician, Manipal Hospitals, Bengaluru, told IANS. There are two ways to donate organs: a living donor -- a healthy person who donates one of a pair of organs such as the kidney or part of an organ such as the liver; and/or through Cadaveric donation -- when you harvest organs (heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, pancreas) from brain dead people, as well as tissue donation, meaning taking tissues (skin, corneas, tendons, bone) from brain dead as well as those whose heart has stopped, but in that case it has to be done with limited time period. A single cadaveric donor can give life to about six-nine recipients (two kidneys, liver, heart, lungs, pancreas, intestine, eyes and tissues). "Due to Covid-induced lockdowns and reduced traffic on the roads, accidents with consequent head injury and brain death related organ donors have reduced. On the other hand, even the recipients are unable to travel to transplant centres due to intra and interstate travel restrictions," Mukul Rastogi, Additional Director-Hepatology, Fortis Noida, told IANS. "There is also an apprehension regarding Covid status and potential transmission from deceased donors to recipients and healthcare providers. Similarly, there is a risk of recipients, live donors and the healthcare team inadvertently transmitting Covid to each other," he added. However, the doctors suggest that it is safe to donate after two-three months of Covid recovery. A complete vaccination before the process can make it safer, protecting both the donor and the recipient from the future infection of Covid. Even if they develop Covid, it will be very mild. "After the Covid pandemic, doctors have been extra cautious in the procedures of organ donation. It is safe to donate once you recover from Covid. Post-Covid, we assess whether there is any Covid-related involvement of the organs. If any person wants to donate organs post-recovery, we evaluate them completely. In cases when lungs are needed to be donated, we ensure there are no residual problems before donation," Vishwanath said. Moreover, with the availability of accurate tests (RT -PCR and antibody) for Covid with a rapid turnaround time (4-6 hours), it is possible to determine whether transplant can be safely performed, the doctors said. In India, every year almost 3.5 lakh people need some form of organ transplant but less than 11,000 transplants are carried out. The overall organ donation rate in India is quite low at around 0.52 per million population, compared with 36.07 donors per million in the US. The Cardiology Society of India reveals that over 50,000 patients need heart transplantation in a year but less than 250 actually get one. As per the Indian Society of Organ Transplantation, of the 21,395 kidneys transplanted in India between 1971 and 2015, only 783 were from cadaveric donors. Out of more than 50,000 people who need liver transplant, only 2,000 procedures are being done, according to Indian Society of Gastroenterology. "Organ donation in India needs to pick up the pace to match the humongous gap that is existing between patients who need organs and organ availability. As critical illnesses are on the rise, harvesting organs from deceased bodies and making it accessible to the one who needs should be the priority," D. Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman, AIG Hospitals, in Hyderabad, told IANS.

Organ donation dropped significantly due to COVID-19: Experts

Launching the national vehicle scrappage policy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the BJP government was committed to provide the people with global standards of safety and quality.

The PM was virtually participating in the Investors Summit where seven pacts were inked between the government and industrial stakeholders regarding scrapping of vehicles. 
 
The Prime Minister requested youths and start-ups to join the programme. 
 
The PM said, "India is committed to provide global standards to its citizens as far as safety and quality is concerned. The direct transition from BS-4 to BS-6 is a part of the very same thought process. The government is working extensively at every level from research to infrastructural facilities for providing Green and Clean mobility in the country." 
 
"Currently the present scrapping procedure in the country is not productive. The energy recovery is next to nil. High strength steel alloy cannot be recovered to its full value. Precious metals also cannot be recovered. Last year, we had to import scrap steel worth Rs 23,000 crore," Modi said. 
 
"It is the government`s sincere and full fledged efforts to reduce our reliance on imports. Constant efforts are made to boost Atma Nirbhar Bharat and make the auto industry`s value chain sustainable and productive. The National Vehicle Scrappage Policy is one such big step. Now with the scientifically based scrapping procedures, we will be able to recover not only required metals and reduce the imports, but also recover rare earth metals," said the PM. 
 
The PM said, "The policy will play a big role in the modernisation of the vehicular population in the country, removing unfit vehicles from the roads in a scientific manner. Not only will it bring in investments of around Rs 10,000 crore, but also provide vast employment opportunities for small traders and workers associated with the scrap industry." 
 
"Not only the automotive industry but the scrap related sector will also get a new energy, a new security. The small traders and workers related to the scrapping industry will experience a big change in their lives and a secure atmosphere. They will also avail the benefits available in the organized sector. The small traders could also become collecting agents for Authorized Scrapping Centres," the PM said. 
 
The summit is aimed at getting investments for setting up vehicle scrapping infrastructure. 
 
According to the policy, a certificate will be issued on the scrappage of old vehicles. It will ensure that people scrapping their vehicles will get a discount on buying new vehicles and benefit in taxes. 
 
Personal vehicles older than 20 years and commercial vehicles older than 15 years will have to undergo a fitness test at government registered `automated fitness centres`. 
 
Vehicles that fail to pass the test will be declared as `End-Of-Life vehicles` (EOL), which would mean that the vehicle would have to be recycled. This will pave the way for older vehicles to be scrapped. In case the vehicle passes the test, the owner will have to pay a hefty fee for re-registration. 
 
According to the new policy, the re-registration fee would be hiked to around eight times for personal vehicles, and around 20 times for commercial vehicles. 
 
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari and Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani were also present on the occasion. 
 
The event, which saw participation of potential investors and industry players, was organized to attract investment for setting up vehicle scrapping infrastructure under the Voluntary Vehicle-Fleet Modernization Programme, an official release said.

Launching the national vehicle scrappage policy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the BJP government was committed to provide the people with global standards of safety and quality.

Launching the national vehicle scrappage policy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the BJP government was committed to provide the people with global standards of safety and quality. The PM was virtually participating in the Investors Summit where seven pacts were inked between the government and industrial stakeholders regarding scrapping of vehicles. The Prime Minister requested youths and start-ups to join the programme. The PM said, "India is committed to provide global standards to its citizens as far as safety and quality is concerned. The direct transition from BS-4 to BS-6 is a part of the very same thought process. The government is working extensively at every level from research to infrastructural facilities for providing Green and Clean mobility in the country." "Currently the present scrapping procedure in the country is not productive. The energy recovery is next to nil. High strength steel alloy cannot be recovered to its full value. Precious metals also cannot be recovered. Last year, we had to import scrap steel worth Rs 23,000 crore," Modi said. "It is the government`s sincere and full fledged efforts to reduce our reliance on imports. Constant efforts are made to boost Atma Nirbhar Bharat and make the auto industry`s value chain sustainable and productive. The National Vehicle Scrappage Policy is one such big step. Now with the scientifically based scrapping procedures, we will be able to recover not only required metals and reduce the imports, but also recover rare earth metals," said the PM. The PM said, "The policy will play a big role in the modernisation of the vehicular population in the country, removing unfit vehicles from the roads in a scientific manner. Not only will it bring in investments of around Rs 10,000 crore, but also provide vast employment opportunities for small traders and workers associated with the scrap industry." "Not only the automotive industry but the scrap related sector will also get a new energy, a new security. The small traders and workers related to the scrapping industry will experience a big change in their lives and a secure atmosphere. They will also avail the benefits available in the organized sector. The small traders could also become collecting agents for Authorized Scrapping Centres," the PM said. The summit is aimed at getting investments for setting up vehicle scrapping infrastructure. According to the policy, a certificate will be issued on the scrappage of old vehicles. It will ensure that people scrapping their vehicles will get a discount on buying new vehicles and benefit in taxes. Personal vehicles older than 20 years and commercial vehicles older than 15 years will have to undergo a fitness test at government registered `automated fitness centres`. Vehicles that fail to pass the test will be declared as `End-Of-Life vehicles` (EOL), which would mean that the vehicle would have to be recycled. This will pave the way for older vehicles to be scrapped. In case the vehicle passes the test, the owner will have to pay a hefty fee for re-registration. According to the new policy, the re-registration fee would be hiked to around eight times for personal vehicles, and around 20 times for commercial vehicles. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari and Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani were also present on the occasion. The event, which saw participation of potential investors and industry players, was organized to attract investment for setting up vehicle scrapping infrastructure under the Voluntary Vehicle-Fleet Modernization Programme, an official release said.

India committed to provide global standards of safety and quality to citizens: PM Modi

Shimla, Aug 13 (IANS) Nearly 100 school students on Friday sang the national anthem in the Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh in a full-throated voice to mark the 75th anniversary of India`s independence, being celebrated as `Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav`.
 
The video of their chanting `Bharat Mata ki Jai` in the newly developed open-air ice hockey rink in Kaza town amidst the stunning backdrop of the mighty mountains at an altitude of 3,720 metres in the picturesque but rugged Spiti Valley, was uploaded at the Union government website -- rashtragaan.in 
On July 25, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to sing the national anthem on August 15 and to create a `rashtra gaan` record. 
"We feel proud to be part of the 75th anniversary of the country`s independence by singing the national anthem with pride and loudly," class X student Nikita Negi told IANS over the phone, adding "Such events instil a sense of national pride in us." 
She said they were proud to be part of creating a "rashtra gaan" record. 
Her classmate Riya Dolma added: "PM Modi gave a call to make this August 15 a special occasion since the country is entering its 75th year of Independence. We are proud that we are associated with this historic day." 
Sub-divisional Magistrate Mohan Dutt Sharma told the media that nearly 100 students took part in the `Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav`. Even Buddhist lamas of nunneries and the staff took part in it. 
The event was organised at the skating rink, the highest in the country as Kaza is located at an altitude higher than Leh, where temperatures plummet to below minus 20 degrees Celsius in winter. 
--IANS 
vg/bg

Shimla, Aug 13 (IANS) Nearly 100 school students on Friday sang the national anthem in the Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh in a full-throated voice to mark the 75th anniversary of India`s independence, being celebrated as `Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav`.

Shimla, Aug 13 (IANS) Nearly 100 school students on Friday sang the national anthem in the Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh in a full-throated voice to mark the 75th anniversary of India`s independence, being celebrated as `Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav`. The video of their chanting `Bharat Mata ki Jai` in the newly developed open-air ice hockey rink in Kaza town amidst the stunning backdrop of the mighty mountains at an altitude of 3,720 metres in the picturesque but rugged Spiti Valley, was uploaded at the Union government website -- rashtragaan.in On July 25, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to sing the national anthem on August 15 and to create a `rashtra gaan` record. "We feel proud to be part of the 75th anniversary of the country`s independence by singing the national anthem with pride and loudly," class X student Nikita Negi told IANS over the phone, adding "Such events instil a sense of national pride in us." She said they were proud to be part of creating a "rashtra gaan" record. Her classmate Riya Dolma added: "PM Modi gave a call to make this August 15 a special occasion since the country is entering its 75th year of Independence. We are proud that we are associated with this historic day." Sub-divisional Magistrate Mohan Dutt Sharma told the media that nearly 100 students took part in the `Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav`. Even Buddhist lamas of nunneries and the staff took part in it. The event was organised at the skating rink, the highest in the country as Kaza is located at an altitude higher than Leh, where temperatures plummet to below minus 20 degrees Celsius in winter. --IANS vg/bg

100 students sing national anthem in Himalayas in full-throated voice

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