Top 9 Milestones That Shaped India in 2017

2017 was a remarkable year for India, marked by unprecedented achievements and record-breaking milestones. From sports to space exploration, education to gender equality, here are some of the top events that defined India in 2017.

1. Saina Nehwal Wins Gold at Malaysia Open (January 2017)

Saina Nehwal, the versatile 27-year-old badminton player, reclaimed her winning form after recovering from a knee injury. She clinched the gold medal at the Malaysia Open, defeating Thailand’s Pornpawee Chochuwong. This victory was another significant achievement in her illustrious career, demonstrating India's prowess in international sports.

2. ISRO Launches Record 104 Satellites (February 2017)

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) made history by launching a record 104 satellites in a single mission. Named the PSLV-C37 mission, this feat was achieved using India's Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). Notably, 101 of these satellites were from foreign countries, with the United States contributing 96, alongside one each from Israel, UAE, Netherlands, Switzerland, and Kazakhstan.

3. Paid Maternity Leave Extended to 26 Weeks (March 2017)

A significant step in gender equality in India, the parliament passed a bill extending maternity leave to 26 weeks, the third highest after Canada and Norway. This change applies to women in the organised sector, benefiting approximately 1.8 million women and all establishments with 10 or more employees. This move reflects India's commitment to supporting women in the workforce.

4. First Transgender Sub-Inspector Appointed in Tamil Nadu (April 2017)

K. Prithika Yashini became the first transgender person to be appointed as a sub-inspector in the Tamil Nadu police force. Despite initial rejection by the Tamil Nadu Uniformed Services Recruitment Board (TNUSRB), Prithika's persistent challenge and court victory led to her appointment. This landmark decision highlights India's growing recognition of transgender rights and inclusivity in professional sectors.

5. Free Education to Girls in Punjab (June 2017)

The Punjab government took a bold step towards inclusive education by announcing that the state would sponsor the education of girls from nursery to PhD in all government institutions. This move aims to provide equal educational opportunities to less fortunate girls. Additionally, the state proposed offering free internet services in 13,000 primary schools and 48 colleges, addressing educational disparities.

6. Dangal becomes First Indian Film to Earn 2000 Crores Globally (June 2017)

Aamir Khan's blockbuster hit, Dangal, became the first Indian film to earn $307 million (Rs. 2000 crore) globally. The film's success resonated far beyond borders, breaking records and capturing hearts internationally. Dangal's achievement highlights the rising international popularity of Indian cinema and cultural content.

7. Indian Women's Cricket Team Enters World Cup Finals (July 2017)

India's women's cricket team, led by Mithali Raj, made history by entering the World Cup finals for the first time since 2005. The team not only reached the finals but also caused a major upset by defeating the defending champions, Australia, by 36 runs, thanks to Harmanpreet Kaur's century. This victory paved the way for a nail-biting final at Lord's stadium, reshaping the landscape of women's sports in India.

8. Delhi Metro Becomes the World's First Green Metro (July 2017)

The Delhi Metro earned the distinction of becoming the first fully green metro in the world due to its adherence to green building norms set by the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC). The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation received green certificates for various aspects of its operations, including stations, depots, and sub-stations. This achievement signifies a significant step towards sustainability and eco-friendliness in urban transportation.

9. Breakthrough in Aerospace and Beyond (Concluded)

While the achievement of becoming a world's youngest female commander to fly a B-... mark another significant milestone in India's defense and aerospace programs, it's too early to conclude the full scope of this event. However, each of these achievements collectively underscores India's growing prowess in various fields, from sports and science to education and gender equality.