1947-2021, How has India evolved? From 1991 Economic Liberalisation to Aatmanirbhar Bharat. From the first Indian in space to India's next space mission Gaganyaan. What's India's role on the world stage? Watch Celebrating India: The journey of 75 years on WION Wideangle August 15.

WION WIDEANGLE: Celebrating India: The Journey of 75 Years

As India celebrates Independence Day on Sunday, reactions from different world leaders pour in. From US&nbsp;president&nbsp;Joe Biden to Bhutan’s Prime Minister Lotay Tshering, several leaders from around the world have shared their wishes.&nbsp;

On the occasion of India’s Independence Day, US&nbsp;President Joe Biden&nbsp;said,&nbsp;“I wish all those celebrating today, in India, in the United States, and throughout the world, a safe and happy Indian Independence Day.”&nbsp;

Biden added,&nbsp;“In this moment of great challenges and opportunities, the partnership between India and the United States is more important than ever. Together, we must show the world that our two great and diverse democracies can deliver for people everywhere. And as we do, the friendship between our nations will continue to flourish and grow.”&nbsp;

The president also said, “In the&nbsp;past year, our nations have come together in new ways as we tackle the COVID-19 pandemic, including working in partnership with Japan and Australia—through the Quad—to expand global manufacturing of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines and to strengthen our&nbsp;'last-mile'&nbsp;coordination to reach people throughout the Indo-Pacific.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

US&nbsp;secretary of state Antony&nbsp;Blinken&nbsp;said, “On behalf of the government and people of the United States of America, I extend warm wishes to the people of India on your 75th Independence Day.”&nbsp;

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I take this occasion to convey our appreciation to the government and people of India, particularly the Embassy of India team here, for the support during these difficult times. 
 
I offer my warmest wishes on this special occasion. Happy Independence Day.<a href="https://t.co/Tx2sJHk4rp">https://t.co/Tx2sJHk4rp</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZKoTDPdHsB">pic.twitter.com/ZKoTDPdHsB</a>
— PM Bhutan (@PMBhutan) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMBhutan/status/1426626438761881600?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India’s&nbsp;neighbours, such as Bhutan, have also congratulated the country on the memorable day.&nbsp;Bhutan's Prime Minister Lotay Tshering, said, “I take this occasion to convey our appreciation to the government and people of India, particularly the Embassy of India team here, for the support during these difficult times.&nbsp;I offer my warmest wishes on this special occasion. Happy Independence Day.”&nbsp;

As India celebrates Independence Day on Sunday, reactions from different world leaders pour in. From US president Joe Biden to Bhutan’s Prime Minister Lotay Tshering, several leaders from around the world have shared their wishes.

As India celebrates Independence Day on Sunday, reactions from different world leaders pour in. From US president Joe Biden to Bhutan’s Prime Minister Lotay Tshering, several leaders from around the world have shared their wishes. On the occasion of India’s Independence Day, US President Joe Biden said, “I wish all those celebrating today, in India, in the United States, and throughout the world, a safe and happy Indian Independence Day.” Biden added, “In this moment of great challenges and opportunities, the partnership between India and the United States is more important than ever. Together, we must show the world that our two great and diverse democracies can deliver for people everywhere. And as we do, the friendship between our nations will continue to flourish and grow.” The president also said, “In the past year, our nations have come together in new ways as we tackle the COVID-19 pandemic, including working in partnership with Japan and Australia—through the Quad—to expand global manufacturing of safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines and to strengthen our 'last-mile' coordination to reach people throughout the Indo-Pacific.” US secretary of state Antony Blinken said, “On behalf of the government and people of the United States of America, I extend warm wishes to the people of India on your 75th Independence Day.” I take this occasion to convey our appreciation to the government and people of India, particularly the Embassy of India team here, for the support during these difficult times. I offer my warmest wishes on this special occasion. Happy Independence Day.https://t.co/Tx2sJHk4rp pic.twitter.com/ZKoTDPdHsB — PM Bhutan (@PMBhutan) August 14, 2021 × India’s neighbours, such as Bhutan, have also congratulated the country on the memorable day. Bhutan's Prime Minister Lotay Tshering, said, “I take this occasion to convey our appreciation to the government and people of India, particularly the Embassy of India team here, for the support during these difficult times. I offer my warmest wishes on this special occasion. Happy Independence Day.”

World leaders congratulate India on Independence Day 

As India celebrates its seventy-fifth independence day, security has been scaled up across the country. Thousands of personnel have been deployed across the length and breadth of the country, to oversee the security at strategic locations.

India celebrates 75 years of Independence, security beefed up

India marks its 75th independence day today. Prime minister Narendra Modi will hoist the national flag from the ramparts of the red fort and host India's Olympic heroes as special invitees amid scaled back celebration due to coronavirus.

75 years of Independence: India celebrates 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav'

As India is celebrating its 75th Independence Day this year, different versions of the Indian national anthem “Jana Gana Mana” are doing rounds on social media and winning hearts.

Viral Video: These stunning versions of Indian National Anthem are winning hearts

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from Red Fort on the occasion of the country's 75th Independence Day. PM Modi hoisted the flag and recalled the freedom fighters. In his address, PM Modi lauded the Tokyo Olympic winners and COVID warriors.

India celebrates 75th Independence Day, PM Modi hoists the tricolour at Red Fort

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

Indians are celebrating independence across the country this includes the Indo-Tibetan border police jawans at the banks of Pangong Tso lake in Ladakh.

India: Independence Day celebrations on the banks of Pangong Tso lake in Ladakh

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

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

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

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

August 15 is more than just 'India's Independence'. The Partition and its aftermath, one of the largest migrations in the world. Hear heart-wrenching tales on our special show '1947: Children of Partition'.

1947: Children of Partition - Five survivors tell their stories

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.

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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>
— India in New York (@IndiainNewYork) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainNewYork/status/1406639636538085376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2021</a></blockquote>
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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

For a period of almost 200 years, the British ruled India. From being controlled to gaining control of our own nation, it has been a significant journey.&nbsp;

The desire to attain independence began in the year 1929 when Jawaharlal Nehru as the Congress President gave the call for ‘Poorna Swaraj’ or total independence from British colonial rule.

Initially, January 26 was chosen as Independence Day. Also, the Congress party continued to celebrate it from 1930 onwards, till India attained independence and January 26, 1950, was chosen as the Republic Day.

So, how did August 15 become India's independence day?

Lord Mountbatten had been given a mandate by the British parliament to transfer the power by June 30, 1948.

However, as per C Rajagopalachari’s memorable words - If he had waited till June 1948, there would have been no power left to transfer.&nbsp;

Therefore, Mountbatten preponed the date to August 1947.

With this, he claimed that by advancing the date, he was ensuring that there will be no bloodshed or riot.&nbsp;

As per Mountbatten’s inputs, the Indian Independence Bill was introduced in the British House of Commons on July 4, 1947, and passed within a fortnight.&nbsp;

It provided for the end of the British rule in India, on August 15, 1947, and the establishment of the Dominions of India and Pakistan.

However, he later claimed, as quoted in Freedom at Midnight, “The date I chose came out of the blue. I chose it in reply to a question. I was determined to show I was master of the whole event. When they asked had we set a date, I knew it had to be soon. I hadn’t worked it out exactly then — I thought it had to be about August or September and I then went out to the 15th August. Why? Because it was the second anniversary of Japan’s surrender [in World War II].”

Since then, August 15 is celebrated as India's Independence day. This year will be marked as the 75th Independence day of the nation.

‘Nation First, Always First’ will be the theme of India’s 75th Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation.

The Olympians who won medals at the 2020 Tokyo Games have been sent special invites for the event.

However, similar to last year, this year's celebrations will be tone down, keeping in mind all the social distancing measures due to the Covid pademic.&nbsp;

For a period of almost 200 years, the British ruled India. From being controlled to gaining control of our own nation, it has been a significant journey. The desire to attain independence began in the year 1929 when Jawaharlal Nehru as the Congress President gave the call for ‘Poorna Swaraj’ or total independence from British colonial rule.

For a period of almost 200 years, the British ruled India. From being controlled to gaining control of our own nation, it has been a significant journey. The desire to attain independence began in the year 1929 when Jawaharlal Nehru as the Congress President gave the call for ‘Poorna Swaraj’ or total independence from British colonial rule. Initially, January 26 was chosen as Independence Day. Also, the Congress party continued to celebrate it from 1930 onwards, till India attained independence and January 26, 1950, was chosen as the Republic Day. So, how did August 15 become India's independence day? Lord Mountbatten had been given a mandate by the British parliament to transfer the power by June 30, 1948. However, as per C Rajagopalachari’s memorable words - If he had waited till June 1948, there would have been no power left to transfer. Therefore, Mountbatten preponed the date to August 1947. With this, he claimed that by advancing the date, he was ensuring that there will be no bloodshed or riot. As per Mountbatten’s inputs, the Indian Independence Bill was introduced in the British House of Commons on July 4, 1947, and passed within a fortnight. It provided for the end of the British rule in India, on August 15, 1947, and the establishment of the Dominions of India and Pakistan. However, he later claimed, as quoted in Freedom at Midnight, “The date I chose came out of the blue. I chose it in reply to a question. I was determined to show I was master of the whole event. When they asked had we set a date, I knew it had to be soon. I hadn’t worked it out exactly then — I thought it had to be about August or September and I then went out to the 15th August. Why? Because it was the second anniversary of Japan’s surrender [in World War II].” Since then, August 15 is celebrated as India's Independence day. This year will be marked as the 75th Independence day of the nation. ‘Nation First, Always First’ will be the theme of India’s 75th Independence Day celebrations at the Red Fort from where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the nation. The Olympians who won medals at the 2020 Tokyo Games have been sent special invites for the event. However, similar to last year, this year's celebrations will be tone down, keeping in mind all the social distancing measures due to the Covid pademic.

India Independence: Why was August 15 chosen as Independence Day?

Taliban has seized a helicopter gifted by India to Afghanistan. 9 provincial capitals have now fallen to the Taliban. A US estimate says Kabul could fall within 90 days. But, the US & its allies are washing their hands off Afghanistan's problems. Palki Sharma has more.

Gravitas: Taliban seizes attack helicopter donated by India to Afghanistan

A recent report prepared by British company HouseFresh has revealed that Bangladesh was the most polluted country across the world in 2020, followed by Pakistan, India and Mongolia.&nbsp;

Out of the 50 'most polluted cities' in the world, the Indian city Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh has been given the second spot. 
Ghaziabad provided an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 2.5 particulate matter (PM) in 106.6µg/m3.&nbsp;

China's Hotan province is the most polluted city in the world. &nbsp;

China recorded PM2.5 of 110.2µg/m3. As per the report, it was mostly due to sandstorms resulting from its closeness to the Taklimakan Desert.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamaican-athlete-thanks-tokyo-2020-volunteer-who-paid-his-taxi-money-404958">Also read |&nbsp;Jamaican athlete thanks Tokyo 2020 volunteer who paid his taxi money</a>

The Taklimakan Desert is the largest shifting sand desert in the world.

Bangladesh’s Manikganj is in the third position on the list of the world’s most polluted cities with a PM2.5 of 80.2µg/m3.&nbsp;

“As one of the fastest developing countries around the world, with its industrial sector growing at a rate of 13% per year, vehicles and industrial emissions are the major contributors to air pollution in this country of 165 million people,” the author said.

According to another report by Swiss Air Quality expert IQAir, as many as 22 Indian cities have secured a place in the top 30 most polluted list. Under the 'unhealthy' parameter, cities like Bulandshahr, Bhiwandi, Noida, Greater Noida, Kanpur, Lucknow, Delhi, Faridabad and Meerut have remained in the top position.

A recent report prepared by British company HouseFresh has revealed that Bangladesh was the most polluted country across the world in 2020, followed by Pakistan, India and Mongolia.

A recent report prepared by British company HouseFresh has revealed that Bangladesh was the most polluted country across the world in 2020, followed by Pakistan, India and Mongolia. Out of the 50 'most polluted cities' in the world, the Indian city Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh has been given the second spot. Ghaziabad provided an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 2.5 particulate matter (PM) in 106.6µg/m3. China's Hotan province is the most polluted city in the world. China recorded PM2.5 of 110.2µg/m3. As per the report, it was mostly due to sandstorms resulting from its closeness to the Taklimakan Desert. Also read | Jamaican athlete thanks Tokyo 2020 volunteer who paid his taxi money The Taklimakan Desert is the largest shifting sand desert in the world. Bangladesh’s Manikganj is in the third position on the list of the world’s most polluted cities with a PM2.5 of 80.2µg/m3. “As one of the fastest developing countries around the world, with its industrial sector growing at a rate of 13% per year, vehicles and industrial emissions are the major contributors to air pollution in this country of 165 million people,” the author said. According to another report by Swiss Air Quality expert IQAir, as many as 22 Indian cities have secured a place in the top 30 most polluted list. Under the 'unhealthy' parameter, cities like Bulandshahr, Bhiwandi, Noida, Greater Noida, Kanpur, Lucknow, Delhi, Faridabad and Meerut have remained in the top position.

Ghaziabad second most polluted city in 2020; China's Hotan at first

To celebrate the 75th Independence day, an organisation representing the Indian diaspora in the US has said it will be hoisting the biggest tricolour at Times Square in New York on August 15.

The magnificent flag will be unfurled by the consul general of India in New York, Randhir Jaiswal, according to the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA).

This ceremony will be a part of the day-long celebrations organised by FIA on August 15.

Also, the first India Day billboard at Times Square will be displayed for 24 hours, and, the Empire State Building will be lit in the colours of the Indian tricolour.

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Watch: Indian Flag hoisted at New York's times square <a href="https://t.co/rIv4TyG9Um">https://t.co/rIv4TyG9Um</a> <a href="https://t.co/nUCwGdmogJ">pic.twitter.com/nUCwGdmogJ</a>
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The day will end with a gala cruise on the Hudson River to be attended by top government officials, special guests and members of the Indian American community.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isros-eos-3-satellite-launch-on-gslv-mk2-rocket-fails-350-seconds-after-launch-404761">Also read |&nbsp;ISRO’s EOS-3 satellite launch on GSLV Mk2 rocket fails 350 seconds after launch</a>

An Independence Day message will also be displayed on the largest Jumbotron at Times Square for 24 hours.

Anil Bansal, FIA president, revealed that the organisation will also hoist the tricolour at the State Capital in Rhode Island.

As per the reports by PTI, &nbsp;Indian American sporting icons Abhimanyu Mishra, who at 12 is the youngest Grandmaster in chess history, and 17-year-old Samir Banerjee, who made history by winning the Wimbledon boys’ singles final last month, will be honoured at the event.&nbsp;

Mishra and Banerjee, who are from New Jersey, are expected to be present at the event Sunday.

To celebrate the 75th Independence day, an organisation representing the Indian diaspora in the US has said it will be hoisting the biggest tricolour at Times Square in New York on August 15.

To celebrate the 75th Independence day, an organisation representing the Indian diaspora in the US has said it will be hoisting the biggest tricolour at Times Square in New York on August 15. The magnificent flag will be unfurled by the consul general of India in New York, Randhir Jaiswal, according to the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA). This ceremony will be a part of the day-long celebrations organised by FIA on August 15. Also, the first India Day billboard at Times Square will be displayed for 24 hours, and, the Empire State Building will be lit in the colours of the Indian tricolour. Watch: Indian Flag hoisted at New York's times square https://t.co/rIv4TyG9Um pic.twitter.com/nUCwGdmogJ — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) August 15, 2020 × The day will end with a gala cruise on the Hudson River to be attended by top government officials, special guests and members of the Indian American community. Also read | ISRO’s EOS-3 satellite launch on GSLV Mk2 rocket fails 350 seconds after launch An Independence Day message will also be displayed on the largest Jumbotron at Times Square for 24 hours. Anil Bansal, FIA president, revealed that the organisation will also hoist the tricolour at the State Capital in Rhode Island. As per the reports by PTI, Indian American sporting icons Abhimanyu Mishra, who at 12 is the youngest Grandmaster in chess history, and 17-year-old Samir Banerjee, who made history by winning the Wimbledon boys’ singles final last month, will be honoured at the event. Mishra and Banerjee, who are from New Jersey, are expected to be present at the event Sunday.

Indian diaspora organisation to hoist biggest tricolour at Times Square on Independence Day

Since the Independence and partition of both nations, the competition between India and Pakistan has been visible in many aspects of life.

And cricket is an arena in which this is seen, often with ferocious displays of loyalty and nationalism from both sides.

At any India-Pakistan cricket match, reputation of both the nations is at stake, and the teams don't want to leave any stone unturned in their quest to win.

The cricket rivalry between India and Pakistan has been fierce and heated for many years. But did you know that some cricketers played for both sides?

As both nations mark their Independence Day this weekend, take a look at three cricketers who have represented both India and Pakistan. 
 
Abdul Hafeez Kardar

Abdul Hafeez Kardar, known as the "Father of Pakistan Cricket," is the first player on our list.

He was one of those to have represented both Pakistan and India in international cricket.

He was the Pakistan team's first captain. Kardar was a member of the Indian squad prior to the country's Independence. After that, he represented Pakistan.

He is considered as one of the best left-arm spinners of Pakistan history, and his batting was as beautiful and a visual treat.

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Against England, Abdul represented India in 1946. In that series, though, he did not have much of an influence.

He played three tests for India before moving to Pakistan where he played a total of 23 tests.

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He received the ‘Pride of Performance Award’ from the Pakistan government in 1958.

Amir Elahi

Amir Elahi played for India once, against Australia in Sydney in 1947, and five times for Pakistan in 1952-53, all in India.

He was 44 years old when he played his last Test match in Calcutta.

Elahi began his career as a medium-pace bowler before switching to leg-breaks and googlies, for which he was best known.

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While Elahi's international career was too little to be evaluated only on records, he had a stellar first-class career.

Gul Mohammad

Gul Mohammad was a brilliant batsman, as well as a great fielder and bowler.

Due to his great domestic performance, he received an international call-up in 1946.

Gul made his test debut against England at Lord's and went on to play seven more tests for India.

From 1946 until 1955, he was a member of the Indian cricket team. After playing eight tests for India, &nbsp;he migrated to Lahore and lived there.&nbsp;

He also played for Pakistan in one test against Australia in Karachi in 1956.

When he played for Pakistan versus Australia in 1956, he became the third player to represent both countries.

Since the Independence and partition of both nations, the competition between India and Pakistan has been visible in many aspects of life. And cricket is an arena in which this is seen, often with ferocious displays of loyalty and nationalism from both sides.

Since the Independence and partition of both nations, the competition between India and Pakistan has been visible in many aspects of life. And cricket is an arena in which this is seen, often with ferocious displays of loyalty and nationalism from both sides. At any India-Pakistan cricket match, reputation of both the nations is at stake, and the teams don't want to leave any stone unturned in their quest to win. The cricket rivalry between India and Pakistan has been fierce and heated for many years. But did you know that some cricketers played for both sides? As both nations mark their Independence Day this weekend, take a look at three cricketers who have represented both India and Pakistan. Abdul Hafeez Kardar Abdul Hafeez Kardar, known as the "Father of Pakistan Cricket," is the first player on our list. He was one of those to have represented both Pakistan and India in international cricket. He was the Pakistan team's first captain. Kardar was a member of the Indian squad prior to the country's Independence. After that, he represented Pakistan. He is considered as one of the best left-arm spinners of Pakistan history, and his batting was as beautiful and a visual treat. × Against England, Abdul represented India in 1946. In that series, though, he did not have much of an influence. He played three tests for India before moving to Pakistan where he played a total of 23 tests. × He received the ‘Pride of Performance Award’ from the Pakistan government in 1958. Amir Elahi Amir Elahi played for India once, against Australia in Sydney in 1947, and five times for Pakistan in 1952-53, all in India. He was 44 years old when he played his last Test match in Calcutta. Elahi began his career as a medium-pace bowler before switching to leg-breaks and googlies, for which he was best known. × While Elahi's international career was too little to be evaluated only on records, he had a stellar first-class career. Gul Mohammad Gul Mohammad was a brilliant batsman, as well as a great fielder and bowler. Due to his great domestic performance, he received an international call-up in 1946. Gul made his test debut against England at Lord's and went on to play seven more tests for India. From 1946 until 1955, he was a member of the Indian cricket team. After playing eight tests for India, he migrated to Lahore and lived there. He also played for Pakistan in one test against Australia in Karachi in 1956. When he played for Pakistan versus Australia in 1956, he became the third player to represent both countries.

Did you know? Three cricketers represented both India and Pakistan in international Test matches

India and Saudi Arabia began their maiden naval exercise with the aim of deepening defence cooperation. Is this the next step in India-Saudi ties? Has Riyadh given up on reviving relations with Pakistan? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas:India, Saudi Arabia maiden naval exercise

The Indian embassy in Afghanistan advised all Indians to return from the country amid the ongoing fighting between Afghan security forces and the Taliban. India has now closed all its consulates, leaving only the embassy in Kabul operational.

Afghanistan's Indian embassy advises all Indians to return amid ongoing crisis

The Ethiopian Envoy to India Tizita Mulugeta has appreciated India's "principled" stance on the Tigray issue at the United Nations security council. During UNSC meet on the issue on 2nd July, India's envoy to UN T.S. Tirumurti had commend the Ethiopian Govt on its announcement of humanitarian ceasefire in the Tigray region & granting "humanitarian access to a majority of areas under stress" while backing the country's territorial integrity. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, envoy Tizita Mulugeta said, "India kept its principled position of non-interference in the sovereignty of a given country and also non-interference in affairs of a country" The situation in Tigray has been making global headlines after clashes broke between the Ethiopian government forces and the local Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). Tigray is a region in the northern part of Ethiopia and shares borders with Eritrea, Sudan. Earlier this year Ethiopia's Deputy Prime Minister and foreign minister Demeke Mekonnen Hassen visited India and held talks with his Indian counterpart EAM Jaishankar & briefed on the issue. The Ethiopian Envoy also spoke on ties between the 2 countries and how they are cooperating amid the covid crisis. India had sent vaccines to Ethopia.

Ethiopia appreciates India's stance on Tigray at UNSC

India presented a holistic approach to maritime security at the UN Security Council. Palki Sharma tells you why India's strategy stands a greater chance of creating a broader alliance against China.

Gravitas: India's maritime strategy decoded

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