Why in the News
New books in the India@75 series are bringing attention to overlooked scientists, freedom fighters, and social leaders, such as Anna Mani, whose contributions had received limited public recognition.
About the India@75 Series
- Launched during Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.
- The series aims to document India’s historical journey before and after independence.
- Categories in the Series: The books are divided into four themes: People, Places, Events, and Themes
Focus on Unsung Personalities
- Under the People category, the series highlights both famous and lesser known figures such as:
- Anna Mani
- Janaki Ammal
- Dhyan Chand
- Minoo Masani
- Rani Chennamma
Anna Mani
- Known as India’s “weather woman.”
- Designed and standardised more than 100 meteorological instruments.
- Contributed significantly to meteorology, solar radiation research, and wind energy studies.
Janaki Ammal
- Full name: Edavaleth Kakkat Janaki Ammal (1897–1984).
- One of India’s first women botanists and cytogeneticists.
- Known for pioneering work in plant breeding and genetics.
Dhyan Chand
- Born: 1905, Prayagraj; died: 1979.
- Known as the “Wizard of Hockey.”
- One of the greatest hockey players in history.
Minoo Masani
- Full name: Minocher Rustom Masani (1905–1998).
- A prominent Indian liberal political leader and writer.
- Co-founder of the Swatantra Party in 1959 with C. Rajagopalachari.
- Advocated free markets, individual liberty, and democratic values.
Rani Chennamma
- Born: 1778 in present-day Karnataka.
- Queen of the Kittur.
- Role in Freedom Struggle: Led an armed rebellion against the British East India Company in 1824.
- Opposed the British refusal to recognize her adopted heir to the throne.
| [2023] Consider the following pairs with regard to sports awards: 1. Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award : For the most spectacular and outstanding performance by a sportsperson over period of last four years 2. Arjuna Award : For the lifetime achievement by a sportsperson 3. Dronacharya Award : To honour eminent coaches who have successfully trained sportspersons or teams 4. Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puraskar : To recognize the contribution made by sportspersons even after their retirement How many of the above pairs are correctly matched? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four |
