New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his birth anniversary on Tuesday. In a heartfelt message posted on social media platform X, PM Modi wrote, "Tributes to our former Prime Minister Shri Rajiv Gandhi Ji on his birth anniversary."
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also paid his respects to Rajiv Gandhi, acknowledging his significant contributions in steering India towards modernity. "Today, the nation commemorates Sadbhavana Diwas. Rajiv Gandhi, a remarkable son of India, instilled hope in millions of Indians and played a pivotal role in ushering India into the 21st century," Kharge expressed on X.
Kharge further highlighted the transformative initiatives of Rajiv Gandhi that left a lasting impact on the nation. He mentioned key achievements such as lowering the voting age to 18, empowering local governance through Panchayati Raj, advancing the telecom and IT sectors, promoting computerization, and championing women empowerment. Additionally, Rajiv Gandhi's efforts in peace accords, the universal immunization program, and the introduction of a progressive education policy focusing on inclusive education brought significant progress to India. "We offer our heartfelt tribute to Bharat Ratna Rajiv Gandhi ji on his birth anniversary," Kharge added.
Rajiv Gandhi assumed leadership of the Congress Party in 1984 after the tragic assassination of his mother, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. At the age of 40, he became the youngest Prime Minister of India.
Born on August 20, 1944, Rajiv Gandhi's life was cut short when he was assassinated by a suicide bomber from the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) during an election rally in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, on May 21, 1991.