On PV Narasimha Rao’s birth anniversary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the former Prime Minister, acknowledging his leadership, wisdom, and significant contributions to the nation. “It is our Government’s honour that we conferred the Bharat Ratna on him earlier this year, recognising his rich contribution to our nation,” said PM Modi.
I pay homage to former PM Shri PV Narasimha Rao Garu on his birth anniversary. He is remembered for his leadership and wisdom. It is our Government’s honour that we conferred the Bharat Ratna on him earlier this year, recognising his rich contribution to our nation.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 28, 2024
Born on June 28, 1921, in Karimnagar to P. Ranga Rao, PV Narasimha Rao pursued his education at prestigious institutions, including Osmania University in Hyderabad, Bombay University, and Nagpur University. Rao was a widower and devoted father to three sons and five daughters.
Career and Political Journey
His roles marked PV Narasimha Rao’s career as an agriculturist and an advocate before he ventured into politics. His political journey included several key positions:
- Minister of Law and Information, Government of Andhra Pradesh (1962-64)
- Minister of Law and Endowments (1964-67)
- Minister of Health and Medicine (1967)
- Minister of Education (1968-71)
- Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh (1971-73)
- General Secretary, All India Congress Committee (1975-76)
- Chairman, Telugu Academy, Andhra Pradesh (1968-74)
- Vice-President, Dakshin Bharat Hindi Prachar Sabha, Madras (from 1972)
- Member, Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly (1957-77)
- Member of Lok Sabha (1977-84)
In December 1984, Rao was elected to the Eighth Lok Sabha from Ramtek. His contributions extended to the Public Accounts Committee, which he chaired in 1978-79. During this time, he participated in a South Asian conference convened by the School of Asian and African Studies at London University.
National Leadership and Contributions
Rao’s tenure as a national leader saw him handle several critical portfolios:
- Minister for External Affairs (January 14, 1980 – July 18, 1984)
- Minister of Home Affairs (July 19, 1984 – December 31, 1984)
- Minister of Defence (December 31, 1984 – September 25, 1985)
- Minister of Human Resource Development (September 25, 1985)
During his time as Minister of External Affairs, Rao brought his scholarly background and political acumen to international diplomacy. He chaired the III Conference of UNIDO in New Delhi in January 1980 and the Group of 77 meeting in New York in March 1980. His role at the 1981 Conference of Foreign Ministers of Non-aligned Countries earned him wide appreciation. He led the Indian delegation to the Conference of the Group of 77 on ECDC in Caracas in May 1981.
Foreign Policy and International Relations
The years 1982 and 1983 were pivotal for India’s foreign policy, especially in the context of the Non-aligned Movement. India hosted the Seventh Summit of the Movement, with Rao presiding over Foreign Ministers’ meetings and informal consultations at the United Nations.
Rao also led a special Non-aligned Mission to West Asia in November 1983, aiming to resolve the Palestinian Liberation Organisation issue. He was actively involved with the Commonwealth Heads of Government in New Delhi and the Action Group in Cyprus.
As Minister of External Affairs, Rao chaired various Joint Commissions with countries like the U.S.A., U.S.S.R., Pakistan, Bangladesh, Iran, Vietnam, Tanzania, and Guyana.
PV Narasimha Rao’s legacy as a scholar, statesman, and visionary leader is cherished by the nation. His contributions to India’s political landscape, international diplomacy, and cultural heritage are immense. On his birth anniversary, we honour his remarkable journey and enduring impact on the nation.
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