Chandrayaan-3’s lunar exploration, hosting successful global events, clinching a record medal haul in the Asian Games, and the Indian Premier League attaining decacorn status marked India’s proudest moments in 2023. These accomplishments collectively symbolize a year of exceptional national pride and achievement. For me, here are 10 proudest moments;
Chandrayaan-3: India’s Mega Success
Chandrayaan-3 mission to explore the lunar south pole marks a pivotal moment in India’s space endeavors. The successful soft landing near the moon’s southern pole is a cause for national pride, establishing India as the first country to achieve this remarkable feat and positioning it at the forefront of space exploration.
One interesting revelation from Chandrayaan-3’s mission pertains to the lunar surface temperature. The Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment (ChaSTE) defied expectations by measuring temperatures reaching 70 degrees Celsius, surprising scientists who had anticipated a range of 20 to 30 degrees Celsius.
Adding to the mission’s significance, the Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy instrument on the ‘Pragyan’ rover confirmed the presence of Sulphur on the lunar surface near the south pole. This discovery also validated the existence of other elements such as Aluminium, Calcium, Iron, Chromium, Titanium, Manganese, Silicon, and Oxygen.
These findings not only contribute to our scientific understanding of the moon but also solidify India’s growing influence in space exploration. Chandrayaan-3’s success positions India as a key player in reshaping the relationship between humanity and outer space, opening new possibilities for the future.
Asian Games 2023: India Finishes off with Record 107 Medals
India concluded its participation in the Asian Games on a high note, securing a record-breaking total of 107 medals, comprising 28 gold, 38 silver, and 41 bronze. This outstanding achievement propelled the nation to the fourth position based on the gold-medal count. The remarkable performance surpassed India’s 2018 tally of 70 medals, including 16 gold, highlighting significant progress and success in the sporting arena. The improved medal count reflects the dedication and prowess of Indian athletes, making the nation proud on the regional sporting stage.
The final Medal standings of Hangzhou Asian Games.#Hangzhou #AsianGames #MedalStandings #HangzhouAsianGames #AsianGames2023 pic.twitter.com/r8RAslmGgd
— The 19th Asian Games Hangzhou Official (@19thAGofficial) October 8, 2023
Asian Para Games 2023: The Indian contingent delivered an outstanding performance at the Asian Para Games 2023 in Hangzhou, securing a remarkable fifth-place finish on the medals table. The team amassed a total of 111 medals, including 29 gold, 31 silver, and 51 bronze.
This achievement at the Asian Para Games 2023 marks India’s best-ever performance in terms of medal tally at a continental multi-sport event, surpassing their previous record set at the 2018 Asian Para Games where they clinched a total of 72 medals.
‘Naatu Naatu’ (Movie-RRR) Creates History with Oscar Win for Best Original Song in 2023
The song “Naatu Naatu” from the Indian blockbuster “RRR” made history by winning the Oscar for Best Original Song. Composed by M.M. Keeravani and featuring lyrics by Chandrabose, this infectious Telugu-language dance number from director S.S. Rajamouli’s crossover action hit achieved a significant milestone. Notably, “Naatu Naatu” is the first song from an Indian film to be both nominated and win in the Best Original Song category at the Oscars. This accomplishment highlights the global recognition and impact of Indian cinema in the world of entertainment.
New Parliament: Actual Freedom from Colonial Symbolism
The recently built Parliament building stands as a source of immense pride for India’s 1.4 billion people. On May 28, 2023, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated India’s modern Parliament building, marking a significant moment in the nation’s history. As part of the ceremony, Modi unveiled a plaque dedicating the building to the nation. In adherence to tradition, he was presented with a gold-plated sceptre named “Sengol” by Adheenam priests. PM Modi placed this symbolic item near the Lok Sabha Speaker’s chair, adding a touch of tradition and cultural significance to the momentous occasion.
G20 2023 Highlights: India Successfully Hosted Summit for the First Time
India’s hosting G-20 summit was a landmark event in India’s history. It was certainly one of the proudest moments for Indians. In a year marked by global challenges and power struggles, India showcased its diplomatic skills by leading a united G20 in adopting an ambitious plan to address major issues, reflecting a determined approach.
Bharat Mandapam: A Modern Marvel
India’s year-long presidency of the G20 achieved significant milestones by securing the inclusion of the 55-nation African Union as a permanent member. Overcoming deep divisions related to the Ukraine conflict, the presidency successfully produced a leaders’ declaration, marking noteworthy accomplishments during its tenure.
Built as a national project with an investment of approximately ₹2,700 crores, Bharat Mandapam is positioned as a key player in showcasing and promoting India as a premier global business destination.
Designed as an architectural masterpiece, Bharat Mandapam is equipped to host grand international exhibitions, trade fairs, conventions, conferences, and various prestigious gatherings.
Featuring numerous meeting rooms, lounges, auditoriums, an amphitheatre, and a fully-equipped business center, Bharat Mandapam offers a comprehensive range of amenities, making it capable of accommodating a diverse array of events.
Solar Pioneer: Aditya-L1 Shines as India’s Pride in Sun Exploration
India another milestone in space is Aditya-L1. It is India’s first mission to study the Sun. It goes to a special spot in space called L1, where it can see the Sun clearly. The mission helps us learn about the Sun’s outer layer, called the corona, and understand solar activities that affect Earth. Aditya-L1 has tools to observe and study the Sun’s behavior, contributing to global solar research. It’s a joint effort by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and scientific institutions in India, showcasing India’s growing space capabilities. The mission is important for understanding space weather and its impact on our communication and power systems.
India Became 3.7 Trillion Doller Economy: A Road to Be The 5th Largest Economy
India stands 5th at the GDP tally in the world currently but soon expected to be the world’s third largest economy. India is expected to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2030, projecting a 7% GDP growth in the fiscal year 2026-27. Currently, India holds the fifth position, trailing behind the US, China, Germany, and Japan. Additionally, it cites S&P’s Global Credit Outlook for 2024, which forecasts a 6.4% GDP growth rate for the financial year ending March 2024, indicating a slight decrease from the 7.2% recorded in the preceding financial year.
Indian Premier League (IPL): The 2nd Richest League of The World
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has attained the coveted status of a decacorn, with its brand valuation surging by 28% to $10.7 billion. A decacorn denotes a privately held company valued at $10 billion or more. In 2022, the IPL’s brand value stood at $8.4 billion. Remarkably, since its inception in 2008, the IPL’s brand value has skyrocketed by 433%, starting from a $2 billion valuation after its inaugural season. This substantial growth underscores the league’s significant impact and sustained popularity in the realm of sports and entertainment.