PM Modi pays tributes to PV Narasimha Rao on birth anniversary, recalls "enduring contributions"
New Delhi, June 28
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday paid tribute to former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao on his birth anniversary, remembering his enduring contributions to India's progress.
In a post on X, Modi described Rao as an able administrator and distinguished scholar with deep knowledge of India's diverse culture.
"Tributes to former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao Ji on his birth anniversary. He made enduring contributions to India's progress during a critical phase of our nation's history. He made a mark as an able administrator. He was also a distinguished scholar, blessed with immense knowledge and understanding of India's diverse culture," PM Modi wrote.
PV Narasimha Rao was born on June 28, 1921 at Karimnagar.
Rao (1921-2004) was India's 9th Prime Minister, serving from 1991 to 1996. A lawyer and politician, he played a pivotal role in shaping modern India. He introduced landmark economic liberalisation policies, dismantling the License Raj and opening India to global trade and investment.
His tenure saw efforts to boost literacy and healthcare, with a focus on women's empowerment. Rao's leadership navigated India through a challenging period, leaving a lasting impact on the country's development trajectory. He was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna in 2024 for his contributions.
Rao launched India's 'Look East' policy in 1991-92, a significant strategic shift focusing on deeper economic, cultural, and strategic ties with Southeast Asian nations (ASEAN) to boost trade, development, and counterbalance China's growing influence, setting the stage for the more action-oriented 'Act East Policy' later.
He was the Minister of Law and Information, 1962-64; Law and Endowments, 1964-67; Health and Medicine, 1967 and Education, 1968-71, Government of Andhra Pradesh. He was the Chief Minister, Andhra Pradesh, 1971-73.
— ANI
Reader Comments
PV Narasimha Rao was a silent architect of modern India. Unlike today's politicians who seek constant limelight, he worked behind the scenes and let history judge him. The 'Look East' policy was visionary—now we see its full potential with Act East. Respect! 🙏
As someone who studied Indian economic history, Rao's role was crucial but underappreciated for years. The 1991 reforms were a bold gamble that paid off. It's refreshing to see cross-party acknowledgment from the current government. Maybe more leaders could learn from his quiet competence.
Honestly, it's ironic that Modi is praising Rao. The same party that criticized Congress governments for decades is now claiming Rao's legacy. But I'll give credit where due—Rao's economic reforms were truly transformative. Just wish the tribute was more about policies and less about politics.
Interesting that Rao's contributions to education and healthcare get mentioned. People often forget that besides economics, he focused on social sectors. The literacy improvements and women's empowerment initiatives during his tenure deserve more recognition. A true Renaissance man in Indian politics.
As a Telugu speaker, it makes me proud to see our own PV Narasimha Rao finally getting his due. He was a polyglot, a scholar in multiple languages, and a leader who lifted India from a balance-of-payments crisis. But why did it take so long for the Bharat Ratna? Better late than never I guess. 😊
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