Sambalpur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed veteran BJP leader LK Advani as a "great son" of India, emphasizing that the nation never forgets those who dedicate their lives to its service. The announcement to bestow Advani with the Bharat Ratna reflects this sentiment, Modi stated during an event in Odisha.

Addressing the audience gathered for the unveiling of development projects in Sambalpur, PM Modi praised Advani's extensive contributions to the nation. He highlighted Advani's roles as Deputy Prime Minister, Home Minister, Information and Broadcasting Minister, and his unwavering commitment to public causes as a Member of Parliament.

Expressing gratitude for Advani's guidance and affection, PM Modi remarked, "Today, our country has decided to confer the 'Bharat Ratna' upon its great son, former Deputy Prime Minister Shri Lal Krishna Advaniji. Advaniji's works and services have been inspiring. This honor to Advaniji underscores the nation's recognition of those who devote their lives to its service. I have been fortunate to receive the love and guidance of Lal Krishna Advaniji continuously."

Earlier in the day, PM Modi announced Advani's selection for the prestigious Bharat Ratna. "I am delighted to announce that Shri LK Advani Ji will be awarded the Bharat Ratna. I had the pleasure of speaking with him and extending my congratulations on this honor. He is one of the most respected statesmen of our times, and his contribution to India's development is monumental," Modi shared.

This marks the seventh Bharat Ratna conferred by the Modi government since assuming office in 2014, with previous recipients including Karpoori Thakur, Madan Mohan Malviya, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Pranab Mukherjee, Bhupen Hazarika, and Nanaji Deshmukh.

Born in Karachi, present-day Pakistan, on November 8, 1927, Advani served as the President of the Bharatiya Janata Party for an extensive period since its establishment in 1980. Throughout his parliamentary career spanning nearly three decades, he held key positions such as Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister in Atal Bihari Vajpayee's cabinet (1999-2004).

Prime Minister Modi also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for 18 projects worth Rs 68,000 crores during his visit to Sambalpur, Odisha.

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