Leaders of India, including President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, paid tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his sixth death anniversary. Vajpayee, who passed away in 2018, was a renowned leader and a towering figure in Indian politics, who made history as the first non-Congress Prime Minister to complete a full term in office. His contributions and vision continue to be remembered and honored by the nation.
Remembering Atal Bihari Vajpayee: A Legacy of Leadership and Vision
Background
Atal Bihari Vajpayee, one of India's most revered leaders, passed away on August 16, 2018, leaving an unfillable void in Indian politics. A renowned statesman, orator, and visionary, Vajpayee played a pivotal role in shaping modern India.
Born on December 25, 1924, in Gwalior, Vajpayee joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) at an early age and became actively involved in the Indian independence movement. He entered electoral politics in 1957 and served as the Member of Parliament (MP) for Balrampur in Uttar Pradesh for a record 10 terms.
Vajpayee's political career culminated in his three terms as India's Prime Minister. His first tenure lasted from May 1996 to June 1996, followed by a 13-day stint as Prime Minister in 1999. His final and longest-serving term began in October 1999 and ended in May 2004.
Legacy and Contributions
Vajpayee's leadership was characterized by bold initiatives and a commitment to economic development while upholding India's core values. Some of his most notable achievements include:
Tributes and Remembrance
On the sixth anniversary of Vajpayee's death, Indian leaders paid heartfelt tributes to his legacy. President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and several other dignitaries visited the Vajpayee Memorial at Rashtriya Smriti Sthal in New Delhi to pay homage.
"Atalji remains an inspiration to us all. His vision and leadership will continue to guide us in the years to come," said Prime Minister Modi in a tweet.
FAQs
What was Atal Bihari Vajpayee's political ideology? Vajpayee was a lifelong member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and subscribed to the party's ideology of integral humanism ("Ekatma Manavvad"), which emphasizes the unity of all living beings and the importance of social harmony.
What are some of Vajpayee's most famous speeches? Vajpayee was known for his eloquent and powerful speeches, including his "Tryst with Destiny" speech at the United Nations General Assembly in 2003 and his "Lotus Bloom" speech during the BJP's victory rally in 1984.
What was Vajpayee's role in the formation of the NDA government in 1998? Vajpayee was instrumental in forming the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), a coalition of center-right parties, which enabled him to become Prime Minister after the 1998 general elections.
What is the significance of the Pokhran-II nuclear tests? The Pokhran-II nuclear tests established India as a nuclear power and were a significant milestone in the country's defense history. They also led to international pressure and sanctions against India.
How is Vajpayee's legacy preserved? Several institutions, such as the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Good Governance and Policy Analysis, the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Educational Institute, and the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Centre for Policy Research, work to promote and disseminate his ideas and contributions.
In a significant moment for gender equality, President Droupadi Murmu became the first woman to visit the Lord Ayyappa Temple in Sabarimala. Accompanied by her team, she performed Darshan and Puja at the shrine, praying for the well-being and prosperity of her fellow citizens. Her visit symbolized the Supreme Court's decision to lift the ban on menstruating women entering the temple, reminding us that devotion knows no gender barriers.
With early voting just days away, the three major candidates vying to become New York City's next mayor are gearing up for the final debate in what could be their last chance to sway voters. The debate, hosted by Spectrum NY1, The City, and WNYC/Gothamist, will cover issues such as affordability, crime, and the role of former President Donald Trump in the city's politics. With the stakes high and the clock ticking, Democrats Zohran Mamdani and Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa will need to make a strong case for themselves to secure the future of New York City.
CM Yogi Adityanath's statement about the role of "political Islam" in undermining Sanatan Dharma has sparked controversy and discussion throughout the nation. During an event organized by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), he highlighted the struggles of Indian warriors against political Islam, claiming that this aspect of history is often overlooked. Adityanath's remarks have renewed debates on the representation of India's historical narrative and the impact of colonialism and political Islam.
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav's remarks questioning the government's spending on Diwali celebrations in Ayodhya, and his comparison to Christmas festivities worldwide, have sparked controversy. While the BJP has accused Yadav of being envious of Ayodhya's success, the Vishva Hindu Parishad has criticized him for undermining Indian culture. The comments highlight the tension between political parties over religious and cultural events.
On the occasion of Home Minister Amit Shah's 60th birthday, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis wished him with a special message on Twitter, calling him the "Chanakya of Indian politics." Fadnavis praised Shah's political acumen and leadership, stating that his contribution to the nation remains unmatched. PM Narendra Modi also conveyed his greetings, commending Shah's dedication to public service and national security. Leaders across India, including former Tamil Nadu CM Edappadi K Palaniswami, extended their wishes and praised Shah's steadfast leadership and tireless dedication.
On Home Minister Amit Shah's birthday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to convey his wishes and praise his efforts towards improving India's internal security. Modi highlighted Shah's dedication to public service and hardworking nature, which has earned him admiration from across the country.
In a social media post, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wishes Home Minister Amit Shah on his birthday and acknowledges his dedication to public service. PM Modi also highlights Shah's efforts in strengthening India's internal security. Shah's birthday coincides with the Gujarati new year and he will be attending public events in his home state of Gujarat along with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.
In a move to empower widowed women, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced on Thursday the implementation of the Kalyani Scheme, offering a financial aid of ₹2 lakh for widow remarriage under Operation Sindoor. This announcement was made at the 377th birth anniversary celebration of Maharaja Chhatrasal, a Bundela warrior known for his courage and national pride. CM Yadav also inaugurated a cultural festival, Virasat Mahotsav, in honor of Maharaja Chhatrasal and the warriors and valor of Bundelkhand.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrates Diwali with Navy personnel aboard INS Vikrant, praising the warship's role in instilling fear in Pakistan. He commemorates India's military might and the bravery of armed forces in Operation Sindoor, while also highlighting INS Vikrant as a symbol of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Made in India. The festive celebrations on board consisted of cultural performances and an air power demonstration, making the occasion deeply symbolic and unforgettable.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrated Diwali with the crew of India's indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, describing the ship as a symbol of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Made in India. He saluted the Indian Navy, Air Force, and Army for their courage, skill, and coordination, especially during the 1971 victory over Pakistan. The Prime Minister also highlighted the progress towards self-reliance in India's defence production, with thousands of items now being manufactured domestically and a new indigenous warship or submarine being inducted into the Navy every 40 days on average.