Jawaharlal Nehru
(14 November 1889 – 27 May 1964)Jawaharlal Nehru, popularly known as Pandit Nehru, was a central figure in India's fight for independence and the first Prime Minister of independent India. He is remembered as a visionary leader who played a pivotal role in shaping modern India, focusing on secularism, democracy, socialism, and industrialization.
Early Life and Education
Born: 14 November 1889, in Allahabad, British India (now Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh).
Parents:
Father: Motilal Nehru, a prominent lawyer and Congress leader.
Mother: Swaruprani Thussu.
Nehru was educated in prestigious institutions:
Attended Harrow School in England.
Graduated in law from Trinity College, Cambridge.
Completed his barrister's training at Inner Temple, London.
Role in India's Freedom Struggle
Joining the Movement:
Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, Nehru joined the Indian National Congress (INC) in the 1910s.
Became one of the youngest leaders to rise to prominence in the independence movement.
Advocacy for Socialism:
Nehru's exposure to socialism during his travels to Europe influenced his political ideology.
Advocated for the rights of the poor, peasants, and workers.
Key Roles in Congress:
Elected as Congress President multiple times (1929, 1936, 1937, 1946).
His tenure in 1929 saw the historic Purna Swaraj Declaration (Complete Independence).
Civil Disobedience and Imprisonment:
Nehru was imprisoned multiple times during key movements like the Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, and Quit India Movement.
Role as India's First Prime Minister (1947–1964)
Nation Building:
Nehru laid the foundation for a secular and democratic India.
Advocated for a mixed economy, combining socialism and capitalism.
Five-Year Plans:
Focused on industrialization, with projects like the Bhakra Nangal Dam and establishment of industries like steel plants and power stations.
Education and Science:
Promoted scientific temper and established institutions like:
Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs).
Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs).
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS).
Championed universal education and the introduction of the National Policy on Education.
Foreign Policy:
Architect of Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) during the Cold War.
Advocated for peace, disarmament, and cooperation with nations across political ideologies.
Legacy
Children’s Day:
His love for children earned him the nickname "Chacha Nehru".
His birthday, 14 November, is celebrated as Children’s Day in India.
Books and Writings:
Authored influential works like:
The Discovery of India
Glimpses of World History
An Autobiography
Architect of Modern India:
Advocated for scientific progress, economic development, and social equality.
Envisioned a self-reliant India with a focus on industrial and technological growth.
Challenges and Criticism
Partition of India:
Nehru’s leadership during the partition of India and Pakistan (1947) was marred by violence and mass displacement.
Kashmir Conflict:
Nehru’s handling of the Kashmir issue, including taking the matter to the United Nations, has faced criticism.
1962 Sino-Indian War:
The defeat in the war against China in 1962 was a major blow to his leadership.
Death
Died: 27 May 1964, due to a stroke.
Nehru's death marked the end of an era, and he was deeply mourned across India and the world.
Significance
"Tryst with Destiny" Speech:
Delivered on 15 August 1947, marking India's independence, remains iconic.
Nehru's vision for India continues to influence the nation’s policies on democracy, secularism, and scientific development.
Famous Quotes
"At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom."
"The only alternative to coexistence is codestruction."
"Facts are facts and will not disappear on account of your likes."
Jawaharlal Nehru remains a towering figure in Indian history, remembered for his vision, leadership, and contributions to India’s growth as a modern nation.
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