6 Indian Prime Ministers and their remarkable decisions

The largest democracy in the world 6 Indian Prime Ministers and their has evolved a lot amid independence and it has not been a cakewalk. Prime Ministers over time made remarkable decisions that form the present social, economic, and Political Interface of the country. This article focuses on the extraordinary decisions of six prime ministers who will forever alter the country's political history.

Narendra Modi

Narendra Modi, the current serving Prime Minister is known for his gigantic and impactful global image. His landslide victory with a full majority in 2014 made him stand apart. Initiatives like Ayushman Bharat, Swachh Bharat, New Education Policy, Ram Mandir Inauguration in Ayodhya, Revoking special status of Jammu & Kashmir and Atma Nirbhar Bharat boosted his popularity and fueled trust among the masses. It will be interesting to see if he continues to come back to power after the 2024 General Elections which will be conducted soon.

Dr. Manmohan Singh

A renowned economist who served as the Prime Minister for ten years, the longest after Pandit Nehru and Indira Gandhi. Often portrayed by the media as a ‘low key PM’, Dr. Manmohan Singh’s prominent contributions include getting the rank of the second fastest growing economy during his tenure. Improved international relations with nations like Afghanistan, the USA, and other neighboring countries also count. Acts that redefined the meaning of a just society in the largest democracy, the Right to Information (RTI) and Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) were implemented during his tenure.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee

One of the most celebrated Prime Ministers of India to date, Atal Bihari Vajpayee efforts showcased India as an emerging global power. Implementation of the National Highway Development Project connecting remote areas to cities and encouraging foreign investments for economic well-being are decisions worth remembering. Vjapayee’s tenure also witnessed conflicts related to the pressure from the Vishwa Hindu Parishad in 2002 during the 10th anniversary of Babri Masjid demolition. Furthermore, In May 1998, India successfully carried out nuclear tests in Pokhran, Rajasthan. The tests were carried out under the guidance of APJ Abdul Kalam, India's former President and former Head of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) during PM Vajyapee's tenure.

P.V Narasimha Rao

Also called the father of Indian Economic Reforms, P.V Narasimha Rao’s prime ministership witnessed foreign investments through the equity market, the abolishment of the License Raj, the beginning of a computer-based trading system, and crisis management related to the Bombay blasts. The use of updated technology for relief work and management during the Latore earthquake and dealing with aircraft hijacking also count as remarkable achievements.

Indira Gandhi

Indira Gandhi, India's first Female Prime Minister, had an intriguing political career that had numerous challenges and triumphs. Launch of the Twenty Point Programme (1975) to eradicate poverty, the Green Revolution, the Nationalization of 14 commercial banks, and the abolition of Privy Purse are among her major contributions. During her Prime ministership, India conducted its first nuclear tests in Pokhran, Rajasthan, on May 18, 1974, as part of the 'Smiling Buddha' operation, marking its entry into an elite group with nuclear capabilities. The 1971 victory of the India-Pakistan war and efforts towards self-sufficiency also count.

Jawahar Lal Nehru

The first and longest-serving Prime Minister of India, his tenure marked significant achievements in establishing a newly emerged democracy after years of struggle against colonial rule. Making primary education available to all strata of society, establishing prominent educational institutions such as the Indian Institute of Technology (IITs), Indian Institute of Management (IIMs), and All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), and promoting agricultural and economic growth are all significant.

Way Forward

Finally, the legacies of these six Indian Prime Ministers reverberate throughout the country's complex history. Their astonishing actions, ranging from economic reforms to geopolitical partnerships, have helped shape India's global destiny. As the country moves forward, it must be inspired by its leadership, which embraces innovation and inclusivity for a greater future. Let us know your opinion in the comments.