New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for conferring the Bharat Ratna upon former Union Minister LK Advani. Singh praised Advani's contributions to the nation and democracy, highlighting his parliamentary and administrative prowess.

In a statement shared on social media platform X, Singh acknowledged Advani's role in maintaining India's unity and integrity. He described Advani as an inspiration and a symbol of purity, dedication, and determination in politics. Singh emphasized Advani's significant contributions to the country's development and nation-building throughout his lengthy public service career.

Singh credited Advani with strengthening the country and democracy through his scholarly insights and administrative abilities. He expressed joy on behalf of all Indians for Advani's recognition with the Bharat Ratna and thanked PM Modi for the decision.

Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, also extended congratulations to Advani, hailing him as a founding member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and a source of inspiration for party workers. Adityanath commended Advani's decades-long dedication to the nation's integrity and his efforts in setting high moral standards.

Earlier, PM Modi announced the Bharat Ratna for LK Advani, lauding his monumental contributions to India's development. PM Modi highlighted Advani's journey from grassroots work to serving as Deputy Prime Minister, Home Minister, and Information & Broadcasting Minister. He praised Advani's exemplary parliamentary interventions and rich insights.

Born in Karachi, Pakistan (then part of undivided India), on November 8, 1927, Advani served as BJP President for a significant period since its establishment in 1980. He held key ministerial positions under Atal Bihari Vajpayee's cabinet, including Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister.

Advani, known for his intellectual prowess and unwavering support for a strong India, faced the upheaval of India's partition in 1947 but remained committed to creating a secular India. He dedicated himself to building the BJP into a national force, culminating in significant electoral successes in the late 1980s and 1990s, notably in 1996 when the BJP became the largest party in the Lok Sabha for the first time since independence, marking a milestone in Indian democracy.

BJP stalwart LK Advani to Receive Bharat Ratna, Announces PM Modi