This follows a sharp rise in tensions between the United States and Iran after a violent crackdown on protests across Iran.

The historic success of Operation Sindoor was powered by India’s self-reliance in the defence sector, President Droupadi Murmu said in an address to the nation today, on the eve of the 77th Republic Day celebrations.

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who created history by becoming the first Indian to visit the International Space Station (ISS), has been honoured with the Ashoka Chakra, India’s highest peacetime gallantry award.