Padmanabh B Acharya had an illustrious political career marked by unwavering dedication and service to the nation. Born on July 17, 1941, in Udupi, Karnataka, he played a pivotal role in shaping the political discourse of the country. From 2014 to 2019, Acharya held the position of governor in Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Tripura.
Acharya’s Early Life and His Association With RSS
Acharya forged his early connection with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and faced a six-month incarceration during the RSS ban in 1948. After serving his term, he resumed his education, earning his degree from the MGM College of Udupi. Subsequently, Acharya relocated to Mumbai to pursue legal studies. A key figure among the founders of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), Acharya, from his early days in ABVP, actively engaged in addressing issues concerning North East India.
In the 1960s, he initiated the ‘Student’s Experience in Interstate Living’ (SEIL), a distinctive program aimed at fostering connections between the youth of North East India and the rest of the country. Additionally, between 1995 and 2001, Acharya held the position of the BJP’s National Secretary.
Acharya played a pivotal role as the head of the Uapanagr Shikshan Mandal, overseeing numerous educational institutions in Mumbai for an extended period.
Guiding force for SEIL and ABVP
One of the significant chapters in his early political journey was his tenure as the National President of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) from 1969 to 1970.
During his leadership of the ABVP, Padmanabh B Acharya played a crucial role in championing the cause of education, advocating for student rights, and fostering a sense of nationalism among the youth. His tenure as the National President is remembered as a period of dynamic and positive change within the organisation.
He also went on to become the founder General Secretary of the Student Experience in Inter-State Living (SEIL). Founded in 1965 by members of Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad, SEIL is a trust aimed at fostering unity among Indian students. Initiated under the presidency of Acharya Giriraj Kishore, SEIL’s primary focus is to promote brotherhood between youth from northeast India and the rest of the nation. The trust organises an annual study tour and cultural exchange program, impacting over 1500 students. Through the program, students stay with local host families, fostering a deeper understanding of diverse cultures.
SEIL, under the guidance of late Padmanabh Acharya, not only contributed to national integration but also focused on skill development, financial literacy, and education for the youth in North-East India. The establishment of Yuva Vikas Kendra in 2000 exemplifies SEIL’s commitment to providing a platform for the youth of North East India to contribute to the nation’s progress. Padmanabh Acharya played a crucial role in advancing SEIL’s mission, leaving a lasting impact on the organisation’s efforts towards fostering unity and development among Indian youth.
His commitment to upholding the principles of democracy and promoting socio-economic development in the Northeastern states earned him respect across party lines.
As news of his demise spreads, political leaders, colleagues, and citizens expressed their grief and remembered Padmanabh B Acharya as a statesman who dedicated his life to the service of the nation.
President Droupadi Murmu also conveyed her sorrow over the passing of Shri Padmanabha Balakrishna Acharya. Recognising him as a seasoned leader, President Murmu acknowledged Shri Acharya’s service as governor in several northeastern states, highlighting his unwavering dedication to the well-being of the people. She commended his noteworthy contribution to a principled and purposeful public life, considering it a commendable example for others to follow. The President extended her deepest condolences to Shri Acharya’s family members and admirers during this difficult time.
Saddened by the demise of Shri Padmanabha Balakrishna Acharya. A veteran leader, Shri Acharya had served as Governor in many north eastern states and dedicated himself for the welfare of people. His contribution to clean and purposeful public life is worthy of emulation. I extend…
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) November 10, 2023
RSS Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat and Sarkaryawah Dattatreya Hosabale expressed thier grief over the demise of the veteran RSS leader and a seasoned politician.
The sad demise of Shri Padmanabh B. Acharya, former Governor of Nagaland & Assam, brings the end to a bright chapter in public life. We express our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and countless admirers of Shri Acharya. Shri Padmanabh ji was an ardent Swayamsevak and… pic.twitter.com/D9Mv6r83CC
— RSS (@RSSorg) November 10, 2023
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, in his condolence message, highlighted Acharya’s unwavering commitment to the organisation’s ideology.
Padmanabh B. Acharya had been actively associated with the Organiser Magazine for a long time. We at Organiser, join the nation in expressing our heartfelt condolences to Padmanabh B. Acharya’s family, friends, and admirers. May his soul rest in peace, and may his contributions continue to inspire generations to come.
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