In the worst industrial disaster in history, 40 tonnes of poisonous methyl isocyanate gas leak out from Union Carbides pesticide plant in Bhopal on December 2, 1984, killing nearly 3,000 people and affecting 50,000 others. Over one lakh people flee their homes in the town.
MILESTONES
Harpal Singh becomes the first Maruti owner in 84. Within three years a whole new culture is spawned. People begin splurging on car accessories; repainting, AC, stereo, miniature TV...
On April 3, 1984, Squadron Leader Rakesh Sharma is launched aboard the Soviet Soyuz T-11 (top right), becoming Indias only spaceman. The first Indian-made satellite, INSAT1-B (far right), is launched on April 10, 1982, inaugurating a national TV network. MGR dies in 1987 after which his party splits between his wife Janaki and J. Jayalalitha.
January 16, 1978: Rs 1,000, 5,000 and 10,000 notes are demonetised.
1981: India borrows $5 billion from the International Monetary Fund, the biggest such loan in history.
May 23, 1984: Bachendri Pal of Uttarkashi becomes the first Indian woman to conquer Mount Everest.
1984-85: Ravi Shastri hits six sixes in an over off Tilak Raj in the Bombay vs Baroda Ranji Trophy match. Equals Sir Gar field Sobers feat.