Prime Minister Modi Announces Bharat Ratna Honors for Narasimha Rao, Charan Singh, and M S Swaminathan

On Friday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that former Prime Ministers P V Narasimha Rao and Charan Singh, along with the pioneer of the Green Revolution, M S Swaminathan, will be honored with the Bharat Ratna.

The government recently bestowed the highest civilian honor of the country upon former Bihar chief minister Karpoori Thakur, known for his advocacy of backward empowerment, and L K Advani, a founding member of the BJP credited with shaping its ascent during the 1990s.

This year, five individuals were honored with the Bharat Ratna, one more than the previous record set in 1999, marking the highest number announced in a single year.

In the announcement ceremony, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the significant contributions of P V Narasimha Rao, whose economic liberalization policies transformed the nation, Lal Bahadur Shastri, a stalwart advocate for farmers’ rights, and M S Swaminathan, a globally respected agricultural scientist, praising their invaluable service to the nation.

Singh, a prominent Jat leader hailing from western Uttar Pradesh, served as Prime Minister from 1979 to 1980. He played a pivotal role in spearheading the anti-Congress movement during a period when the party held unparalleled political dominance.

Congress leader Rao, of Telugu descent, held the position of Prime Minister for a full five-year term from 1991 to 1996. He is widely acclaimed for his instrumental role in introducing and implementing significant economic reforms in the country.

“It is a moment of great privilege for our government to confer the Bharat Ratna upon Singh, a tribute that underscores his unparalleled contributions to our nation,” stated Modi.

“Whether serving as an MLA, as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, or as the Home Minister of the country, he consistently propelled the nation-building endeavor forward and bravely opposed the Emergency,” he added.

Modi reminded of the period when then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had imposed the Emergency in 1975.

“Singh’s unwavering dedication to farmers and his steadfast commitment to democracy during the tumultuous times of the Emergency continue to inspire our nation,” remarked the Prime Minister.

The timing of this honor for Singh is noteworthy, especially as the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD), led by his grandson Jayant Singh, is reportedly engaged in discussions with the BJP for a potential alliance ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, anticipated in April-May. Singh passed away in 1987.

In heartfelt homage to Rao, who passed away in 2004, Modi extolled his extensive service to the nation in various capacities as a distinguished scholar and statesman.

Rao’s legacy transcends his tenure as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, his roles as a Union Minister, and his longstanding positions as a lawmaker in both Parliament and the assembly, Modi emphasized.

“His visionary leadership played a pivotal role in propelling India towards economic advancement, laying a robust groundwork for the nation’s prosperity and progress,” Modi remarked.

“Under Narasimha Rao Garu’s prime ministership, India witnessed significant reforms that facilitated its integration into the global economy, heralding a new phase of economic development,” he added.

Modi underscored Rao’s notable contributions to India’s foreign policy, as well as his impact on language and education sectors, highlighting his multifaceted legacy as a leader who not only navigated India through crucial transformations but also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage.

The Modi government’s decision to honor two eminent politicians from non-BJP backgrounds carries significant political and social implications. It is poised to bolster the BJP’s endeavor to portray itself as a party representing the diverse interests and aspirations of the nation while acknowledging eminent figures across various domains.

Rao’s admirers have long contended that his contributions have not received adequate recognition from the Congress, partly due to his strained relations with the Nehru-Gandhi family—a sentiment often echoed by BJP leaders.

As the sole Prime Minister from South India to serve a full term, Rao holds a special position in the region’s collective consciousness.

Modi expressed profound delight as his government prepares to bestow the Bharat Ratna upon Swaminathan, acknowledging his monumental contributions to agriculture and the welfare of farmers.

“He was instrumental in guiding India towards agricultural self-sufficiency during tumultuous periods, making remarkable strides in modernizing Indian agriculture. Additionally, we commend his invaluable efforts as an innovator and mentor, nurturing learning and research among numerous students,” Modi affirmed.

Swaminathan’s visionary leadership has not only revolutionized Indian agriculture but also guaranteed the nation’s food security and prosperity, remarked the Prime Minister, reflecting on his close association with the esteemed agronomist and his profound appreciation for Swaminathan’s wisdom and guidance.

Regrettably, Swaminathan passed away last year.

Among the five awards conferred this year, four are awarded posthumously. Advani, aged 96, stands as the sole living recipient.