The lotus, the name of which matches PM Modi's initials 'NaMoh', has 108 petals, been developed by Lucknow's CSIR – National Botanical Research Institute & blooms between March and December.
The govt was responding to opposition members alleging that the move was a "further saffronisation" attempt by the Modi govt, given that the lotus is BJP's election symbol.
Request for Information issued by govt seeks transfer of technology. This comes as the planned acquisition of 200 Kamov light utility helicopters from Russia remains in limbo.
Standing up to America is usually not a personal risk for a leader in India. Any suggestions of foreign pressure unites India behind who they see as leading them in that fight.
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