'1992: Key Events

• ‘Prithvi’, India’s medium range surface-to- surface missile is successfully tested, followed by the ‘Agni’.

• Major stock exchange scandal featuring the stockbroker Harshad Mehta is discovered, and the Janakiraman Committee’s revelations of major collusion by banks is accepted by the government.

• The BJP govern- ment makes Sanskrit compulsory in primary schools in U.P. Later in the year the BJP organises an attack on Ayodhya and destroys the Babri mosque leading to major bloodbaths in many parts of the country.

• The first Indian-made satellite, INSAT-2 A, is launched from Kourou.

• Five selected regional TV channels go national.

• Satyajit Ray is presented an honorary ‘Oscar’ and the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour.