Lal Bahadur Shastri, an iconic figure of India’s independence struggle against British rule. For Indian’s, he was the epitome of honesty. Indian youth can take inspiration from his mantra of life. Under Lal Bahadur Shastri’s leadership, the entire nation was on the road to progress.
His slogan “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan” became extremely popular during the 1965 war.
Details
In 1904, 35 years since Gandhi’s birth, a boy called Lal Bahadur was born in Uttar Pradesh’s Mughalsarai town and rose up towards becoming India’s second Prime Minister. Lal Bahadur Shastri’s character is difficult to describe in a few lines.
He played a pivotal role in all of India’s nationalist movements.
He was jailed for a short period as a participant of Mahatma Gandhi’s non-cooperation movement opposing the British government in India (1921). Following his release, he entered the Kashi Vidyapitha, a nationalist university, where he graduated and received the title of Shastri (“skilled in the scriptures”).
Following signing a “no-war” deal with Pakistani President Ayub Khan, he died of a heart attack and was replaced as Prime Minister by Indira Gandhi, Nehru’s daughter.
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What Contribution Did Lal Bahadur Shastri Make To India?
- He founded the National Dairy Development Board, a nationwide drive to boost milk production and distribution. India switched from being a milk importer to a milk exporter.
- He made a provision for female conductors and drivers in public transport services as Transport Minister.
- He rooted for equality and saw the caste system as a societal problem that divides people. As a result, Lal Bahadur Shastri gave up his surname at a young age.
- He garnered fame for his strong approach when clashes with Pakistan over the disputed Kashmir province ignited in 1965.
- Throughout his tenure, there were severe food shortages. He urged that everyone leave their one-time meal of the day. The Indians were delighted with his initiative, and he also decided to forego his one-time meal for a few months. As a result, the poor people’s need for food was actually met.
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Lal Bahadur Shastri Was a Firm Believer of “Simple Living, High Thinking”
Lal Bahadur Shastri was known for his honesty. His leadership approach was clear. To perform the mission, he hired the most suitable people. He was a firm believer in the philosophy of “Simple Living, High Thinking. “The entire world-respected him for it He is the only Prime Minister to have lost his daughter to starvation while in prison during the freedom struggle. He was the first person to receive the Bharat Ratna posthumously.
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Lal Bahadur Shastri’s Memorial is Named As Vijay Ghat
There are several examples that show his approach towards life such as Shastri didn’t even own a car upon becoming India’s Prime Minister. Shastri approached his secretary to check out the cost of a Fiat car after being pressured by family members. The total amount came to Rs. 12,000, leaving Shastri short by Rs. 5000. As a result, he filed for a car loan, which he received in a blink. The bank officer was contacted right away and asked if the bank was similarly quick in granting loans to other customers.
During his ministry, he displayed an impressive balance of courage and commitment. As a result, in New Delhi, a memorial called Vijay Ghat was established in his honor.
