Ram Nath Kovind, the 14th President of India, celebrates his 78th birthday on October 1st, 2023. Born in 1945 in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, Kovind has had a remarkable political journey that led him to the highest constitutional office in India. On this special occasion, let's take a closer look at the political career of this distinguished leader who has left an indelible mark on Indian politics.

Early Life and Education

Ram Nath Kovind hails from a humble background. He was born to Maikulal and Kalawati in Paraukh village in the Kanpur Dehat district of Uttar Pradesh. Kovind's journey from this modest background to the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President of India, is a testament to his hard work and determination.

Kovind completed his primary education in his village and later moved to Kanpur for his higher education. He earned a Bachelor's degree in Commerce and went on to obtain an LL.B. degree from DAV College, Kanpur. His education laid the foundation for his legal career, which would eventually propel him into politics.

Legal Career

After completing his law degree, Kovind practiced law at the Delhi High Court and the Supreme Court of India. He was known for his dedication and commitment to justice, often taking up pro-bono cases for the underprivileged. His legal career spanned several decades, during which he gained a reputation for his integrity and legal acumen.

Entry into Politics

Ram Nath Kovind's foray into politics occurred in the early 1990s when he joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), one of India's leading political parties. He quickly rose through the ranks due to his organizational skills and unwavering commitment to the party's ideology. Over the years, he held various positions within the BJP, including serving as the President of the BJP Dalit Morcha and the President of the All-India Koli Samaj.

Governorship of Bihar

One of the pivotal moments in Kovind's political career came in 2015 when he was appointed as the Governor of Bihar. As Governor, he gained respect for his impartiality and focus on development. His tenure saw a renewed emphasis on education and the welfare of marginalized communities.

Presidential Candidacy and Victory

In 2017, Ram Nath Kovind's political career reached its zenith when he was nominated by the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) as its presidential candidate. His nomination was significant as he was the first person from the Scheduled Caste community to be nominated for the highest office in India. Kovind's humble background and his extensive experience in public service appealed to a broad spectrum of political leaders and voters.

In the presidential election held in July 2017, Kovind won by a comfortable margin, securing over 65% of the votes. His victory symbolized the inclusivity of India's democratic process and the recognition of talent and merit beyond caste or creed.

Presidential Term

Ram Nath Kovind took the oath of office as the 14th President of India on July 25, 2017. During his term, he focused on various issues, including the promotion of education, environmental conservation, and women's empowerment. His presidency was marked by a commitment to the principles of the Indian Constitution and the welfare of all citizens.

As Ram Nath Kovind celebrates his birthday on October 1st, his journey from a small village in Uttar Pradesh to the presidency of India serves as an inspiration to many. His dedication to public service, integrity, and commitment to social justice have left an enduring legacy in Indian politics. Kovind's life and career are a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and the democratic ideals that India upholds.