India, May 29 -- Rachel Gupta, who made history as the first Indian to win the Miss Grand International crown, has stepped down from her title less than a year after her landmark victory. The 20-year-old model from Jalandhar announced her resignation on Wednesday, citing "broken promises, mistreatment, and a toxic environment" within the pageant organisation. (Also read: Hailey Bieber's beauty brand Rhode acquired for a whopping $1 billion: Here's how her husband Justin Bieber celebrated )

In a heartfelt Instagram post shared on May 28, Rachel wrote, "It is with deep regret that I share this news: I have made the decision to step down as Miss Grand International 2024 and return my crown. Being crowned was one of the most cherished dreams...