Introduction
The year 2023 marks the 104th anniversary of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, a heartbreaking event in Indian history that occurred on April 13, 1919, in Amritsar, India. This tragic incident, led by British Gurkha soldiers under Brigadier-General Dyer’s orders, resulted in the death of over 1,000 unarmed protestors. Today, this place serves as a powerful tribute to the sacrifices made by countless Indians in their fight for independence.
The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre: A Turning Point in Indian History
The protestors had assembled at Jallianwala Bagh to peacefully demonstrate against the Rowlatt Act 1919. The aftermath of the massacre led to massive protests and unrest throughout the country, marking it a significant turning point in India’s struggle for independence from British rule. The incident led to widespread condemnation of British colonial policies and played a crucial role in shaping the Indian independence movement. Furthermore, it led Mahatma Gandhi to launch his first major nonviolent civil disobedience campaign, the Non-Cooperation Movement, which later paved the way for India’s independence in 1947.
Assam’s Bihu Dance Sets Two Guinness World Records
In another historical feat, Assam’s traditional Bihu dance has made history by breaking two Guinness world records. A record-breaking 11,304 dancers and musicians performed at Sarusajai Stadium in Guwahati, attempting to set world records for the largest Bihu dance performance and the largest performance by folk musicians. This significant achievement for Bihu, especially popular during the Bohag Bihu or Rongali Bihu that ushers in the Assamese New Year, effectively puts Assam’s rich cultural festivities on the global map.
India Celebrates Traditional New Year Festivals
The President of India extends greetings on the occasion of various Traditional New Year Festivals celebrated across the country. These include Vaishakhi, Vishu (Kerala and surrounding areas), Naba Barsha (West Bengal), Puthandu-Pirappu (Tamil Nadu), and Vaisakhadi. Observed during the spring season, these festivals signify new beginnings according to different regional calendars in India. They mark a vibrant celebration of the country’s rich cultural diversity, bringing together people from various castes and religions.
IAF Participates in Multinational Exercise Orion in France
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is all set to participate in Exercise Orion at Mont-de-Marsan, a French Air and Space Force (FASF) base. The exercise, which is scheduled to take place from April 17th until May 5th, 2023, represents the first overseas involvement of IAF’s Rafale aircraft. Apart from IAF and FASF, air forces from Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Spain, and the USA will partake in this multilateral exercise. The exercise aims to facilitate learning from international best practices and enhance capabilities.
Ghana Approves Oxford’s Malaria Vaccine R21
In a significant development in global health, Ghana has approved the R21 malaria vaccine developed by Oxford University. Being the first country to do so, it marks a potential leap forward in combating the deadly disease. Approved for children aged between 5 and 36 months, who face the highest risk from malaria, the roll-out timeline remains uncertain as other regulatory bodies, including the World Health Organization, continue to assess its safety and efficacy. Despite this, the approval signifies a rare occurrence of an African country green-lit a major vaccine ahead of wealthier nations before the release of final-stage trial data. The Serum Institute of India has an agreement with Oxford to produce up to 200 million doses of the vaccine annually, suggesting a potential expansion in vaccine availability.
