The News Freedom
New Delhi, February 9
In a significant announcement made this evening, President Droupadi Murmu has conferred the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, upon the late Chaudhary Charan Singh, the late P.V. Narasimha Rao, and the late Dr. M. S. Swaminathan. The five recipients honored this year surpass the record set in 1999 when four individuals received the Bharat Ratna, marking the highest number of recipients in a single year. Previously, this esteemed honor was bestowed upon senior BJP leader L.K Advani and the late Bihar Chief Minister and socialist icon Karpoori Thakur.
The conferment of the Bharat Ratna upon Chaudhary Charan Singh, P.V. Narasimha Rao, and Dr. M. S. Swaminathan stands as a testament to their indelible contributions to India’s growth and prosperity. Their legacies continue to inspire future generations, reflecting the nation’s gratitude for their exemplary service and dedication to the welfare of the people. As their achievements are honored and celebrated, India reaffirms its commitment to upholding the values of excellence, leadership, and service to humanity.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced in the morning that agricultural scientist Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh, and former Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao Garu will be posthumously honored with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award.
In a statement posted on social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, Prime Minister Modi lauded Dr. Swaminathan’s monumental contributions to Indian agriculture and farmers’ welfare. He highlighted Swaminathan’s pivotal role in guiding India towards agricultural self-reliance during challenging times and commended his efforts in modernizing the agricultural sector.
“We also acknowledge his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor, fostering learning and research among numerous students,” remarked Prime Minister Modi, emphasizing Dr. Swaminathan’s visionary leadership that not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured national food security and prosperity. He added a personal note, expressing, “He was someone I knew closely and always valued his insights and inputs.”
It is a matter of immense joy that the Government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr. MS Swaminathan Ji, in recognition of his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers’ welfare. He played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in… pic.twitter.com/OyxFxPeQjZ
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2024
In honoring former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh, Prime Minister Modi dedicated the recognition to Singh’s unmatched dedication to the nation, particularly his lifelong advocacy for the rights and welfare of farmers.
हमारी सरकार का यह सौभाग्य है कि देश के पूर्व प्रधानमंत्री चौधरी चरण सिंह जी को भारत रत्न से सम्मानित किया जा रहा है। यह सम्मान देश के लिए उनके अतुलनीय योगदान को समर्पित है। उन्होंने किसानों के अधिकार और उनके कल्याण के लिए अपना पूरा जीवन समर्पित कर दिया था। उत्तर प्रदेश के… pic.twitter.com/gB5LhaRkIv
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2024
Discussing the achievements of former Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao Garu, Prime Minister Modi praised Rao’s extensive service to India as a distinguished scholar and statesman. Rao’s legacy, spanning his tenure as Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Union Minister, and his longstanding service as a Member of Parliament and Legislative Assembly, was hailed for its significant contributions to the nation.
Delighted to share that our former Prime Minister, Shri PV Narasimha Rao Garu, will be honoured with the Bharat Ratna.
As a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities. He is equally remembered for the work he did as… pic.twitter.com/lihdk2BzDU
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 9, 2024
The decision garnered praise from Home Minister Amit Shah and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, who expressed their delight at the recognition bestowed upon these eminent personalities.
Union Home Minister @AmitShah expresses happiness over former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh being awarded with #BharatRatna #ChaudharyCharanSingh remained dedicated to preserving democratic values throughout his life and fought the Emergency bravely, says the Minister…
— PIB India (@PIB_India) February 9, 2024
The Bharat Ratnas announced for those who played such a defining role in our nation building is a welcome development.
Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh made us cognizant of the enormous contribution of our Kisans.
Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao initiated much needed…
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (Modi Ka Parivar) (@DrSJaishankar) February 9, 2024