Lal Bahadur Shastri was an Indian politician who served as the second Prime Minister of India. He was born on October 2, 1904, in Mughalsarai, Uttar Pradesh, India, and he passed away on January 11, 1966. Shastri Ji played a pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence and made significant contributions to the country’s post-independence development and governance.
Key points about Lal Bahadur Shastri:
- Freedom Fighter: Shastri was actively involved in the Indian independence movement against British colonial rule. He participated in various protests and demonstrations.
- Prime Ministership: Lal Bahadur Shastri became India’s Prime Minister on June 9, 1964, following the death of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. He served as Prime Minister until his own untimely death in 1966.
- Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan: One of his most famous slogans is “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan” (Hail the Soldier, Hail the Farmer), which reflected his emphasis on the importance of both the armed forces and agricultural sector in India.
- 1965 Indo-Pak War: During his tenure as Prime Minister, India faced the 1965 war with Pakistan. His leadership and handling of the war were highly appreciated.
- Green Revolution: Shastri Ji is also credited with promoting the Green Revolution in India, which led to significant advancements in agricultural productivity and food security.
- Simplicity and Integrity: He was known for his simplicity, honesty, and integrity in public life. He set an example by leading a modest and unassuming lifestyle.
- Legacy: Lal Bahadur Shastri’s legacy is remembered for his contributions to India’s growth and development, his leadership during challenging times, and his commitment to principles of truth and non-violence, similar to Mahatma Gandhi.
- Death: Lal Bahadur Shastri’s sudden death in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, just after signing the Tashkent Agreement to end the 1965 war with Pakistan, remains a subject of speculation and investigation.
Lal Bahadur Shastri is remembered as one of India’s respected leaders, and his birth anniversary, October 2nd, is observed as Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti in his honor.
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