Today, on the 100th Jayanti of Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, our nation takes a moment to remember and celebrate the legacy of our beloved former PM. Despite inheriting a period of political instability, Atal Ji's leadership brought a sense of stability and effective governance to the nation, earning him immense gratitude and respect. Born from humble beginnings, his understanding of the common man's struggles and the power of good governance is an inspiration to many.
Legacy of Atal Bihari Vajpayee: A Statesman Who Shaped India's Destiny
Background:
Atal Bihari Vajpayee, India's 10th Prime Minister, was born on December 25, 1924, in Gwalior. He began his political career in the 1940s, joining the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS). Vajpayee rose through the ranks of the BJS, becoming its president in 1968. He played a pivotal role in the BJS's merger with several other parties to form the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 1980.
Leadership and Legacy:
Vajpayee served as Prime Minister thrice, with his first term lasting from 1996 to 1997. However, it was his second term, which spanned from 1998 to 2004, that cemented his legacy. During this period, India experienced unprecedented economic growth and stability. Vajpayee's leadership was characterized by pragmatism, consensus-building, and a commitment to national unity.
Some of the key achievements of Vajpayee's government include:
Vajpayee's leadership extended beyond the realm of domestic policy. He played a pivotal role in resolving the long-standing conflict between India and Pakistan, culminating in the "Lahore Declaration" in 1999.
Top 5 FAQs Related to Atal Bihari Vajpayee:
1. What was Vajpayee's first significant political role? Answer: President of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh
2. In which year did Vajpayee become Prime Minister for the first time? Answer: 1996
3. What was the name of Vajpayee's economic policy? Answer: "India Shining"
4. Which major infrastructure project was initiated by Vajpayee's government? Answer: Golden Quadrilateral highway network
5. What was the impact of the "Look East" policy on India's foreign relations? Answer: Strengthened economic and diplomatic ties with East Asian countries
Conclusion:
Atal Bihari Vajpayee was a statesman who left an indelible mark on India's history. His leadership, vision, and commitment to progress transformed the nation into a global powerhouse. As India celebrates the 100th birth anniversary of its beloved former Prime Minister, it is fitting to reflect upon his legacy and draw inspiration from his unwavering dedication to the country.
In a digitized effort, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis transferred a grant of ₹25 crore to 560 gaushalas across the state under the Desi Cow Conservation Scheme. This first phase of the scheme will benefit over 56,000 indigenous cows for their upkeep. Fadnavis emphasized the importance of preserving indigenous cows for rural development and praised the initiative taken by the Maharashtra Goseva Commission. With lower milk productivity, these cow shelters play a vital role in providing necessary care for non-milking and unproductive cows, making the scheme a major relief for them.
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav criticized the BJP for taking 10 months to select a national president, while Amit Shah countered by pointing out dynastic practices among opposition parties. Reports suggest that the BJP will announce its new national president by the third week of April to replace JP Nadda. Nadda's tenure was extended until June 2024, but the new president will still be chosen after a process involving the party's 12-13 crore members.
Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi vehemently opposes the Waqf amendment bill during a Lok Sabha discussion, stating that it is an attack on the foundation of Parliament and the Constitution. He also alleges that the government has ulterior motives for pushing the amendment, including diluting the Constitution, defaming minorities, dividing society, and disenfranchising the minority community. He questions the timing of the amendment and accuses the BJP-led government of restricting religious freedoms in India.
US President Donald Trump has sparked controversy by hinting at ways to stay in power beyond his second term. While the 22nd Amendment limits presidential terms to two, Trump believes there are "methods" to get around it. This raises concerns about the sanctity of democracy and the potential for abuse of power. The idea of a third term for any president has been largely rejected in American history, making this a crucial issue to watch.
The Indian Express has reported exclusively that the BJP may ask K Annamalai to step down as the party's Tamil Nadu president, in order to avoid having both BJP and AIADMK's state election faces come from the Gounder community. This move is seen as a strategic decision to strengthen the BJP's alliance with AIADMK, as both Annamalai and AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami belong to this community. Despite his successful leadership style, Annamalai has reportedly been assured of a bright future within the party and has pledged complete loyalty.
The Lok Sabha braces itself for a heated session as the Centre brings back the divisive Waqf (Amendment) Bill for consideration and passage. The eight-hour debate, agreed upon by leaders from all major parties, could be extended after taking the sense of the House. The previously introduced bill had faced backlash from the Opposition and was sent to a Joint Committee for further scrutiny, leading to clashes over proposed amendments and dissent notes being allegedly redacted. Some of the biggest points of contention include allowing non-Muslims to hold key positions in the Waqf board, giving power to the District Collector to determine ownership of disputed property, and removing the tribunal's final decision clause.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font held discussions on enhancing bilateral relations between India and Chile, particularly in the economic, commercial, and societal sectors. They also paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat and announced the start of negotiations for a comprehensive economic partnership agreement. The Chilean President is on a five-day state visit to India, accompanied by a high-level delegation.
The controversial Godman, Ram Rahim, who is serving a 20-year jail sentence for rape, has been granted a 30-day parole by the Haryana government. His release coincides with the upcoming assembly elections in Delhi, raising questions about the timing of the decision. Ram Rahim's parole last year before the Haryana assembly elections was also met with criticism. With a mass following in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana, the parole has sparked a debate on the influence of religious leaders in politics. IBNS, an objective news agency, strives to provide factual and unbiased news without any biases or agendas.
It has been speculated that K Annamalai, the current BJP Tamil Nadu president, may step down from his position as alliance talks between the BJP and AIADMK intensify. The move comes amid concerns over caste equations and the BJP's strategy to consolidate its hold beyond the western region of Tamil Nadu. Sources reveal that Annamalai has expressed complete loyalty to the party and may take on a national role or a different assignment in the state.
In a scathing attack, Tamil Maanila Congress leader and former Union Minister G.K. Vasan criticized the DMK government in Tamil Nadu for the deteriorating law and order situation in the state. Vasan accused the ruling party of using divisive issues to distract from their failures, corruption, and scams. He demanded a white paper on the alleged Rs 1,000-crore financial fraud involving the state-run corporation responsible for liquor sales. The Enforcement Directorate has conducted raids in connection with suspected financial irregularities, targeting the TASMAC headquarters, distilleries, and liquor contractors.