On August 20, 2024, India observes Sadbhavana Diwas, marking the 80th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. This day, also known as 'Harmony Day,' aims to foster national unity, peace, and communal harmony among all Indians, regardless of religion or language.
Rajiv Gandhi, India's youngest Prime Minister, was known for his modern outlook and forward-thinking policies. He envisioned a developed nation, striving to uplift all sections of society. His efforts laid the foundation for various national and international projects that still impact India today.
Rajiv Gandhi: A Brief Biography
Rajiv Gandhi was born into a family deeply rooted in Indian politics. His grandfather, Jawaharlal Nehru, was India's first Prime Minister, and his mother, Indira Gandhi, was the nation's first female Prime Minister. After Indira Gandhi's tragic assassination in 1984, Rajiv Gandhi became Prime Minister at the age of 40.
During his tenure from 1984 to 1989, Rajiv Gandhi introduced numerous reforms to modernize India. In 1986, he announced the National Policy on Education to expand and update India's education system. He also established the Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya System, providing free residential education to rural children from the 6th to 12th grade. His efforts led to the creation of MTNL in 1986 and the widespread establishment of public call offices (PCOs) in rural areas.
Rajiv Gandhi also played a crucial role in reducing the License Raj, which allowed businesses and individuals to operate with fewer bureaucratic restrictions. He lowered the voting age to 18, empowering young people to participate in the democratic process. His vision for India’s development heavily relied on the power of the youth, which led to the launch of the Jawahar Rozgar Yojana, a program aimed at providing employment to the youth.
The Sadbhavana Diwas Pledge
On Sadbhavana Diwas, people across India take a pledge to work towards the emotional unity and harmony of the nation. The pledge emphasizes resolving differences through dialogue and constitutional means, without resorting to violence.
Significance of Sadbhavana Diwas
Sadbhavana Diwas is a tribute to Rajiv Gandhi’s dream of making India a developed nation. His contributions to the country’s economic and social fabric are remembered and celebrated on this day.
Rajiv Gandhi National Sadbhavana Award
In 1992, the Indian National Congress instituted the Rajiv Gandhi National Sadbhavana Award in memory of Rajiv Gandhi. This award recognises individuals who have dedicated their lives to promoting social harmony. The honor comes with a certificate of recognition and a cash reward of Rs 10 Lakh. Over the years, many prominent figures, including Lata Mangeshkar, Sunil Dutt, and Amjad Ali Khan, have received this prestigious award.
As we observe Sadbhavana Diwas 2023, we remember Rajiv Gandhi’s vision for a strong, united, and self-reliant India. His legacy continues to inspire the nation to work towards peace, harmony, and progress.
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