Under 100 Words: A Compact Summary
PM Modi celebrated Dr. Swaminathan’s agricultural legacy, highlighting his role in food security. Singh’s Bharat Ratna was dedicated to his farmer advocacy, nation-building, and opposition to the Emergency. Rashtriya Lok Dal urged Singh’s posthumous recognition. The Centre also honored L K Advani and Karpoori Thakur with the Bharat Ratna.
- On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi revealed that the prestigious Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, will be bestowed upon former Prime Ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh, along with agronomist MS Swaminathan.
- PM Modi shared this announcement through a series of posts on social media platform X. Expressing his joy, PM Modi stated in a post, “I am pleased to announce that the Bharat Ratna will be conferred upon our former Prime Minister, Shri PV Narasimha Rao Garu.”
- He highlighted Rao’s significant role in initiating the renowned Liberalisation, Privatisation, and Globalisation (LPG) reforms during his prime ministership in 1991.
- In a subsequent post, PM Modi elaborated, stating, “Narasimha Rao Garu, being a distinguished scholar and statesman, served India extensively in various capacities. His notable contributions include serving as the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister, and holding positions in both the Parliament and Legislative Assembly for many years. Recognized for his visionary leadership, he played a crucial role in advancing India economically, laying a robust foundation for the nation’s prosperity and growth.”
- PM Modi also highlighted Rao’s transformative measures during his tenure as Prime Minister, which opened India to global markets and ushered in a new era of economic development. He further emphasized Rao’s impact on India’s foreign policy, language, and education sectors, underscoring his multifaceted legacy as a leader who not only navigated critical transformations but also enriched the country’s cultural and intellectual heritage.
- Rao passed away on December 23, 2004.
- In a separate post, Modi expressed, “I am delighted to share that the Government of India is bestowing the Bharat Ratna upon Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji, recognizing his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers’ welfare.” Swaminathan, often referred to as the “Father of Green Revolution” in India, played a pivotal role in achieving agricultural self-reliance during challenging times.
- PM Modi acknowledged Swaminathan’s outstanding efforts in modernizing Indian agriculture and his role as an innovator and mentor, fostering learning and research among numerous students.
- Reflecting on Dr. Swaminathan’s legacy, PM Modi remarked, “His visionary leadership not only revolutionized Indian agriculture but also safeguarded the nation’s food security and prosperity. I had the privilege of a close association with him, always cherishing his valuable insights and inputs.” Dr. Swaminathan passed away on September 28, 2023.
- Regarding Chaudhary Charan Singh, PM Modi dedicated the award to his “incomparable contribution to the country.” He lauded Singh’s lifelong dedication to the rights and welfare of farmers, emphasizing his impactful roles as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Home Minister of the country, and as an MLA, where he consistently prioritized nation-building.
- PM Modi also commended Singh’s steadfast opposition to the Emergency, highlighting his commitment to democracy and inspirational dedication to the welfare of farmers. Singh, a renowned farmer leader, passed away in 1987.
- Recently, the Rashtriya Lok Dal advocated for Singh to be posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna. This demand came just days before the announcement. Notably, the Centre had also conferred the Bharat Ratna upon BJP veteran L K Advani and former Bihar chief minister Karpoori Thakur.
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