Bharat Ratna for Chaudhary Charan Singh, PV Narasimha Rao Garu and MS Swaminathan. News from India

NEW DELHI: In a series of historic announcements, the Indian government on Friday declared the award of Bharat RatnaThe Nations the highest civilian distinction, on three eminent personalities who have made indelible contributions to the country in various fields. Former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singhand former Prime Minister Shri PV Narasimha Rao and Dr. MS Swaminathan are the esteemed recipients of this prestigious honor, recognizing their unprecedented contributions to agriculture, farmers’ welfare, nation-building and economic reforms.
In a series of tweets, Prime Minister Modi announced the award of Bharat Ratna to these personalities.

Chaudhary Charan Singh: A long-time advocate of farmers’ rights

Late Chaudhary Charan Singh, who served as Prime Minister of India, was posthumously honored with the Bharat Ratna for his unwavering dedication to the welfare of farmers. Throughout his political career, including his tenures as Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh and Home Minister of India, Singh championed the cause of farmers and played an important role in the nation building. His resistance against the state of emergency and his commitment to democracy have been highlighted as sources of inspiration for the entire nation. Prime Minister Modi expressed pride at the government’s opportunity to honor Singh’s legacy and his incomparable contributions to the country.

PV Narasimha Rao: Architect of economic liberalization
The Government is also delighted to award the Bharat Ratna to Shri PV Narasimha Rao, in recognition of his visionary leadership which has ushered India into a new era of economic development. As an eminent scholar and statesman, Rao’s tenure as Prime Minister was marked by important reforms that opened Indian markets to the world, thereby laying a solid foundation for the prosperity and growth of the country. His contributions extend beyond economic policy, enriching India’s foreign policy, language and education sectors. Rao’s multi-faceted legacy as a leader who led India through critical transformations has been duly recognized.

Dr MS Swaminathan: A pioneer of the agricultural revolution
The government has recognized the monumental role of Dr MS Swaminathan in transforming Indian agriculture and ensuring food security in the country. Known as the father of the Green Revolution in India, Dr. Swaminathan’s efforts to modernize agriculture were instrumental in achieving self-reliance in food production during critical times. His work as an innovator and mentor to encourage research and learning among students was also celebrated. Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally spoke of Dr Swaminathan’s visionary leadership and close relationship with him, highlighting the profound impact of his ideas and contributions towards the prosperity of the country.

The Modi government had earlier announced the country’s highest civilian honor for LK Advani and Karpoori Thakur.