The announcement of Bharat Ratna awards to agricultural pioneers and former prime ministers from diverse political backgrounds not only reflects the government’s inclusive approach but also its commitment to recognising efforts that have shaped India’s agricultural landscape.
Celebrating agricultural champions
The government’s choice of Bharat Ratna awardees this year includes Chaudhary Charan Singh and Dr MS Swaminathan, two stalwarts whose work has been pivotal in advancing India’s agricultural development.
This decision highlights the administration’s focus on putting farmers first and acknowledging the contributions of leaders who have championed the cause of agriculture.
Charan Singh
Charan Singh, a Jat and farmer leader from western Uttar Pradesh who was prime minister in 1979-80, emerged as a key figure in the movement against the Congress party’s dominant political stance. He also served as the chief minister of UP on two occasions — from April 3, 1967 to February 25, 1968 and from February 18, 1970 to October 1, 1970.
“It is the good fortune of our government that former Prime Minister of the country Chaudhary Charan Singh is being honoured with Bharat Ratna. This honour is dedicated to his incomparable contribution to the country. He had dedicated his entire life to the rights and welfare of farmers. Be it the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh or the home minister of the country, even as an MLA, he always gave impetus to nation-building. He also stood firm against the Emergency. His dedication to our farmer brothers and sisters and his commitment to democracy during the Emergency are inspiring to the entire nation,” PM posted on X.
Chaudhry Charan Singh’s grandson and RLD chief Jayant Chaudhry welcomed the announcement with a post on X: “Dil Jeet Liya (You have won our hearts.”
“What previous governments could not do until today has been completed by PM Modi’s vision. I would like to once again express my gratitude to PM Modi’s government for encouraging people who aren’t part of the mainstream. It is a big day and an emotional moment for me. I want to thank the President, government, and PM Modi because this was part of his vision. Three awards have been given. The sentiments of the people are connected with this decision,” Jayant Chaudhry said.
Dr MS Swaminathan
The pioneering research conducted by agricultural scientist M S Swaminathan, focusing on plant genetics, has been instrumental in addressing food insecurity, significantly benefiting small-scale farmers by boosting their productivity and, consequently, their earnings.
His lifelong commitment was towards the enhancement of agricultural practices and the betterment of farmers’ livelihoods.
“It is a matter of immense joy that the government of India is conferring the Bharat Ratna on Dr MS Swaminathan, 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 agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture. We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students. Dr. Swaminathan’s visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation’s food security and prosperity. He was someone I knew closely and l always valued his insights and inputs,” PM Modi said in a post on ‘X’.
“He was motivated more by the results of what he did on the ground and the people’s love and affection,” his daughter Dr Soumya Swaminathan said about his work and dedication.
Over the years, his contribution made the country that once depended on American wheat to feed its people in the 1960s, transform into a foodgrain surplus nation.
Fondly addressed as MS by his friends and colleagues, Mankombu Sambasivan Swaminathan, in his long career demonstrated what he advocated — developing new varieties for food security — and ensured bumper crops by working side by side with farmers.
A party-agnostic approach to national honors
The Modi government’s decision to award Bharat Ratna to leaders from non-BJP backgrounds, including Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh, showcases Prime Minister Modi’s statesmanship and his belief in transcending party lines for national recognition. This approach not only honors the individual achievements of these leaders but also sends a strong message of unity and respect for diverse contributions to the nation’s progress.
Strengthening southern connect
By honoring PV Narasimha Rao and Dr MS Swaminathan, who hail from South India, the government has demonstrated its appreciation for contributions from all regions of the country.
(With inputs from agencies)