Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday honored the memory of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his 59th death anniversary, lauding his contributions to India’s progress and his lasting legacy. Kharge hailed Shastri as a Gandhian leader whose simplicity, humility, and visionary leadership inspired the nation.
In a post on X, Kharge wrote: “We pay our heartfelt tribute to the inspiration behind ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan,’ the great Gandhian, our ideal, former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri ji, on his death anniversary. He played an important role in taking the country to new heights. From land reforms to laying the foundation of the milk revolution, from abolishing third class in railways to leading the nation during the 1965 war, Shastri ji became an inspiration to everyone. With his simplicity and modest life, he always worked for the progress of the country.“
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar also paid homage to Shastri, emphasizing the enduring significance of the slogan “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan,” which Shastri coined to express gratitude toward the soldiers and farmers of India.
In his tribute on X, Shivakumar stated: “Paying homage to former Prime Minister Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri—the epitome of simplicity, humility, and patriotism—on his death anniversary. His slogan ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan’ remains a powerful message of gratitude towards the hands that serve the country, and the legacy he left behind will be honored for generations.“
Lal Bahadur Shastri, who passed away on January 11, 1966, in Tashkent (present-day Uzbekistan), remains one of India’s most revered leaders. Known for his modest lifestyle and Gandhian values, Shastri played a pivotal role in India’s development.
He championed land reforms, oversaw significant progress in the Green Revolution, and laid the foundation for the White Revolution, transforming India’s agricultural and dairy sectors. Shastri’s leadership during the 1965 war with Pakistan bolstered national unity and pride. His slogan “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan” continues to resonate as a symbol of India’s strength and gratitude toward its soldiers and farmers.
Shastri’s contributions to the nation and his vision for India’s progress are celebrated to this day, making him an enduring source of inspiration for generations.