In a significant acknowledgment of his contributions to India’s political and economic landscape, former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao has been posthumously conferred with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor. The decision has drawn gratitude from his family, admiration from his admirers, and recognition from global figures.
Prabhakar Rao, son of PV Narasimha Rao, expressed heartfelt thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the initiative to bestow the Bharat Ratna upon his father. He highlighted Rao’s visionary leadership, particularly his landmark economic reforms that made a historic difference to the nation. Prabhakar Rao emphasized that the honor was not just for the family but also for all those who admired and followed Narasimha Rao’s legacy.
Narasimha Rao’s lifelong dedication to politics and his evolution as a statesman were noted by his son. He underscored Rao’s pivotal role in implementing significant policy changes, especially in the realms of land and economic reforms, which garnered global recognition for their transformative impact on India.
The Bharat Ratna announcement was met with tributes from Narasimha Rao’s family members at the PV Gyan Bhoomi in Hyderabad, symbolizing a moment of pride and remembrance for the late Prime Minister’s legacy.
The decision also received international acknowledgment, with Israeli Ambassador to India, Naor Gilon, commending Rao’s leadership. Gilon recalled the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Israel during Narasimha Rao’s tenure in 1992, highlighting the enduring strength of these ties even after 32 years.
PV Narasimha Rao, who served as Prime Minister from June 21, 1991, to May 16, 1996, was born on June 28, 1921, in Karimnagar. His tenure marked a significant period in Indian politics, characterized by economic liberalization and diplomatic outreach.
Additionally, the Bharat Ratna will also be conferred posthumously on former Prime Ministers Choudhary Charan Singh and Green Revolution pioneer MS Swaminathan. This adds to the previously announced recipients, late socialist leader and two-time Bihar chief minister Karpoori Thakur and former Deputy Prime Minister LK Advani.
The recognition of PV Narasimha Rao’s legacy through the Bharat Ratna serves as a testament to his enduring impact on India’s socio-economic fabric and his pivotal role in shaping the nation’s trajectory.
