India celebrates its 78th Independence Day
As India looks to the future, these achievements provide a solid foundation for continued growth and development. The journey of the last 78 years stands as a testament to the resilience, ingenuity, and spirit of the Indian people, promising even greater accomplishments in the years to come.
1948 – Establishment of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
India gained independence from British colonial rule on August 15, 1947, marking the end of over 200 years of British presence. The RBI, India’s central banking institution, was nationalized and started operating to regulate the issue of bank notes and maintain reserves.
1949 – Establishment of the Election Commission of India.
The Election Commission was set up to oversee and ensure free and fair elections in India.
1950 – Adoption of the Constitution; India becomes a Republic
India adopted its Constitution on January 26, 1950, becoming a Republic with Dr. Rajendra Prasad as its first President.
1950 – Establishment of the Planning Commission
The Planning Commission was created to formulate India’s Five-Year Plans for economic development and social justice.
1951 – Establishment of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc)
IISc Bangalore, a premier research institution, was established to promote advanced scientific and technological research.
1951-52 – First General Elections held
India conducted its first general elections, marking the world’s largest democratic exercise with over 173 million voters.
1952 – Establishment of the Indian National Science Academy (INSA)
INSA was established to promote and recognize excellence in scientific research in India.
1953 – Establishment of the first Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Kharagpur
IIT Kharagpur, the first of the IITs, was established to promote technical education and research.
1954 – India hosts the first Asian Games
India hosted the inaugural Asian Games in New Delhi, showcasing the country’s organizational capabilities in sports.
1955 – Launch of the Community Development Programme
This program aimed to improve rural development and living standards through the establishment of community projects.
1956 – Reorganization of states on linguistic basis
The States Reorganisation Act restructured Indian states based on linguistic lines, significantly altering the political map of India.
1956 – Establishment of the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT)
NCERT was established to assist and advise the central and state governments on academic matters related to school education.
1958 – Launch of the Indian National Satellite System (INSAT)
INSAT, a series of multipurpose geostationary satellites, was initiated to improve telecommunications, broadcasting, and meteorology.
1960 – Establishment of the Atomic Energy Commission
The commission was established to develop nuclear energy and oversee atomic research in India.
1961 – Liberation of Goa from Portuguese rule
The Indian Armed Forces conducted Operation Vijay to liberate Goa from over 450 years of Portuguese colonial rule
1962 – First Indian satellite, Aryabhata, launched
Aryabhata, India’s first satellite, was launched into orbit, marking a significant milestone in India’s space program.
1963 – Establishment of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
ISRO was founded to develop space technology and ensure its application for national tasks.
1964 – Green Revolution begins
The Green Revolution introduced high-yielding varieties of seeds and increased agricultural production, especially in wheat and rice.
1965 – Establishment of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)
The CBI was formed to investigate major crimes and ensure national security, integrity, and administration of justice.
1966 – Establishment of the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Ahmedabad
IIM Ahmedabad was established to provide quality management education and foster research and consultancy.
1967 – Establishment of the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB )
NDDB was created to promote, finance, and support producer-owned and controlled organizations, particularly dairy cooperatives.
1969 – Establishment of the National Science and Technology Entrepreneurship Development Board (NSTEDB)
NSTEDB was set up to promote knowledge-driven and technology-intensive enterprises.
1971 – Victory in the Indo-Pakistan War; creation of Bangladesh
India’s victory in the war led to the creation of Bangladesh, significantly altering the geopolitical landscape of South Asia.
1972 – Launch of Project Tiger
Project Tiger was initiated to protect the Bengal tiger and its habitat, leading to the creation of numerous tiger reserves.
1974 – Pokhran-I, India’s first successful nuclear test
India conducted its first nuclear test, codenamed “Smiling Buddha,” in Pokhran, marking its entry into the league of nuclear-armed nations.
1975 – India launches its first satellite, Aryabhata
Aryabhata, India’s first satellite, was launched into space, marking a significant milestone in the country’s space program.
1975 – Establishment of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
ISRO was reorganized to accelerate space research and the application of space technology for national needs.
1975 – Launch of INSAT-1B, first successful Indian communication satellite
INSAT-1B was launched to enhance telecommunications, broadcasting, and meteorological services in India.
1975 – Operation Blue Star
A military operation aimed at removing Sikh militants from the Golden Temple in Amritsar, which had significant political and social repercussions.
1980 – Launch of the first Indian-made satellite, Rohini
Rohini was launched into orbit, demonstrating India’s growing capabilities in satellite technology.
1982 – Launch of the Integrated Rural Development Programme (IRDP)
IRDP was launched to provide employment opportunities, increase income, and improve the living standards of the rural poor.
1983 – India wins the Cricket World Cup
India won its first Cricket World Cup, defeating the West Indies, which marked a historic moment in Indian sports.
1983 – Establishment of the National Institute of Rural Development (NIRD)
NIRD was set up to train and research on rural development, aiming to improve policies and programs for rural areas.
1984 – Rakesh Sharma becomes the first Indian in space
Rakesh Sharma flew aboard the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11, becoming the first Indian to travel in space.
1984 – Launch of INSAT-1B, first successful Indian communication satellite
INSAT-1B was launched to enhance telecommunications, broadcasting, and meteorological services in India.
1985 – Introduction of the National Rural Employment Programme
This program aimed to provide employment opportunities and improve the income of the rural poor.
1986 – Establishment of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Mumbai
IIT Mumbai was established to promote advanced technical education and research in India.
1988 – Launch of the Technology Development Board
The board was set up to promote the development and commercialization of indigenous technology.
1989 – Establishment of the National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO)
NACO was created to prevent and control HIV/AIDS in India through comprehensive and integrated strategies.
1990 – Launch of the National Literacy Mission
This mission aimed to make 80 million adult literates by the year 1995 through various literacy programs.
1991 – Economic liberalization reforms initiated
The government introduced economic reforms to liberalize the economy, leading to significant growth and modernization.
1993 – Establishment of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC)
NHRC was established to protect and promote human rights in India through advocacy and investigation.
1994 – Launch of the District Primary Education Programme (DPEP)
DPEP was launched to improve primary education in underprivileged districts through infrastructure and training.
1995 – Launch of the National Social Assistance Programme
This program aimed to provide financial assistance to the elderly, widows, and disabled individuals in need.
1996 – Establishment of the National Commission for Women (NCW)
NCW was established to safeguard and promote the rights and interests of women in India.
1997 – Golden Jubilee of Independence
India celebrated 50 years of independence with nationwide events and reflections on its progress.
1998 – Pokhran-II, a series of five nuclear bomb test explosions
India conducted five nuclear tests in Pokhran, showcasing its nuclear capabilities and strategic strength.
1999 – Victory in the Kargil War
India successfully defended its territory against Pakistani intruders in the Kargil War, reaffirming its military strength.
1999 – Launch of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)
This scheme was launched to provide all-weather road connectivity to unconnected rural areas, improving rural infrastructure.
1999 – Introduction of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA)
The PMLA was enacted to prevent money laundering and provide for the confiscation of property derived from money laundering, enhancing financial regulation and legal framework.
2000 – Establishment of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Uttarakhand
The creation of these three new states aimed to address regional developmental needs and administrative efficiency.
2000 – Establishment of the National Institute of Technology (NIT) in Tiruchirappalli
NIT Trichy was established as a premier institution to provide quality technical education and foster research.
2000 – India joins the Information Technology Agreement (ITA)
India joined ITA to promote the trade of information technology products and services, boosting its IT sector.
2001 – India hosts the first BRICS summit
India hosted the first BRICS summit, marking its growing role in international economic and political affairs.
2001 – Launch of the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM)
NRHM aimed to improve healthcare delivery in rural areas, focusing on maternal and child health, disease control, and infrastructure.
2002 – National Program for Education of Girls at Elementary Level (NPEGEL) launched
NPEGEL was launched to promote education among girls, particularly those from marginalized communities.
2002 – Establishment of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR)
NCPCR was established to protect, promote, and defend the rights of children in India.
2004 – Right to Information Act passed
The RTI Act was enacted to promote transparency and accountability in government by allowing citizens to request information.
2004 – Launch of the National Health Mission (NHM)
NHM aimed to improve healthcare services across India, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
2005 – National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) implemented
NREGA, later renamed MGNREGA, was implemented to provide at least 100 days of wage employment to rural households annually.
2005 – Launch of the National Urban Renewal Mission (NURM)
NURM was launched to improve urban infrastructure and governance in cities across India.
2005 – Introduction of the Right to Information Act
The RTI Act was enacted to promote transparency and accountability in government by allowing citizens to request information.
2006 – Implementation of the National Rural Health Mission (NRHM)
NRHM aimed to improve healthcare delivery in rural areas, focusing on maternal and child health, disease control, and infrastructure.
2006 – Establishment of the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT)
NIFT was set up to promote education and research in fashion technology, design, and management.
2008 – Launch of the National Action Plan on Climate Change
This plan outlined measures to address climate change and promote sustainable development through eight national missions.
2008 – Chandrayaan-1, India’s first lunar mission
Chandrayaan-1 successfully orbited the Moon, discovering water molecules on the lunar surface and marking a significant achievement for ISRO.
2008 – Launch of the National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem
This mission aimed to protect and sustain the fragile Himalayan ecosystem through conservation and sustainable development.
2009 – India launches the first National Green Tribunal
The National Green Tribunal was established to handle environmental disputes and ensure the effective enforcement of environmental laws.
2010 – India becomes a full member of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)
India joined FATF to combat money laundering and terrorist financing, enhancing its financial and security framework.
2011 – Census of India reveals population over 1.2 billion
The Census of 2011 recorded India’s population at over 1.2 billion, highlighting its demographic growth and challenges.
2011 – Launch of the National Mission for a Green India
This mission aimed to increase forest and tree cover, restore degraded ecosystems, and enhance biodiversity.
2012 – India becomes a member of the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR)
Joining MTCR enabled India to enhance its missile technology and engage in international missile-related trade.
2012 – Establishment of the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC)
NSDC was created to promote skill development by funding vocational training initiatives and aligning them with industry needs.
78. 2013 – National Food Security Act enacted
This act aimed to provide subsidized food grains to approximately two-thirds of India’s population, ensuring food security.
2013 – Launch of the National Clean Energy Fund
The fund was established to support clean energy initiatives and projects to mitigate climate change.
2013 – Launch of Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan)
Mangalyaan successfully entered Mars’ orbit, making India the first Asian country to reach Mars and the fourth space agency in the world to do so.
2014 – Swachh Bharat Abhiyan launched
This nationwide campaign aimed to eliminate open defecation and improve solid waste management, promoting cleanliness and hygiene.
2014 – Establishment of the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog)
NITI Aayog replaced the Planning Commission to serve as the government’s policy think tank, fostering cooperative federalism.
2015 – India joins the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)
India became a full member of SCO, enhancing its strategic and economic cooperation with Central Asian countries.
2016 – Launch of the Stand-Up India scheme
This scheme aimed to promote entrepreneurship among women and marginalized communities by providing financial assistance and support.
2016 – Introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST)
GST was introduced to unify the country’s indirect tax system, simplifying tax compliance and boosting economic growth.
2017 – Launch of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban)
This scheme aimed to provide affordable housing to the urban poor by 2022 through subsidies and financial assistance.
2017 – Launch of GSAT-9 (South Asia Satellite)
GSAT-9 was launched to enhance telecommunication and broadcasting services in South Asia, fostering regional cooperation.
2018 – Successful launch of GSAT-11, the heaviest satellite by ISRO
GSAT-11 was launched to provide high-speed internet and improve communication services across India and neighbouring countries.
2018 – India wins the Blind Cricket World Cup
India won its second Blind Cricket World Cup, showcasing the country’s talent and dedication in sports for differently-abled individuals.
2019 – Abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir
The government revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, integrating it fully with the rest of India and reorganizing the region into two Union Territories.
2019 – India launches the Indian National Satellite System (INSAT)
The INSAT series of satellites continued to enhance communication, broadcasting, and meteorological services in India.
2020 – Successful launch of GSAT-30
GSAT-30 was launched to replace the aging INSAT-4A satellite, ensuring continued telecommunication and broadcasting services.
2020 – Launch of PM CARES Fund to tackle COVID-19
The PM CARES Fund was established to provide relief and support during the COVID-19 pandemic, aiding healthcare infrastructure and resources.
2020 – Launch of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana
This scheme was introduced to provide financial assistance and food security to the poor and vulnerable affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
2021 – Successful launch of PSLV-C51 carrying Amazonia-1 satellite
PSLV-C51 successfully launched Amazonia-1, Brazil’s satellite, marking a milestone in international space collaboration.
2021 – Successful test of the anti-satellite weapon, Mission Shakti
India successfully tested an anti-satellite weapon, demonstrating its space defence capabilities and strategic strength.
2022 – Inauguration of the new Parliament building
The new Parliament building was inaugurated to accommodate the growing needs of the Indian legislature, reflecting modern architecture and functionality.
2022 – India’s 75th Independence Day celebrated
India celebrated 75 years of independence with nationwide events, showcasing its journey of growth and development.
2023 – Chandrayaan-3, India’s second lunar exploration mission
Chandrayaan-3 was launched to further explore the Moon, aiming to demonstrate safe landing and rover operations.
2023 – Successful launch of Gaganyaan, India’s first human spaceflight mission
Gaganyaan was launched, sending Indian astronauts to space, marking a significant milestone in India’s space program.
2024 – Pran Pratishtha of Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir
Ending 500 years of struggle, the Pran Prathistha of Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir took place on January 22, 2024
2024 – PM Modi takes oath for 3rd consecutive time as Prime Minister
On June 9th, PM Narendra Modi took oath as prime minister of Bharat for the third consecutive time
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