‎New Delhi, May 21 (UNI) ‎Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday paid tribute to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his martyrdom day, describing him as a visionary leader whose contributions laid the foundation for modern India’s transformation in the fields of technology, governance, education and public welfare.
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‎In a post on social media platform X, Kharge recalled Rajiv Gandhi’s vision for the country and highlighted several landmark initiatives undertaken during his tenure as Prime Minister.
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‎Quoting the late Congress leader, Kharge wrote: “India is an old country but a young nation… I dream of India — strong, independent, self-reliant and in the front rank of the nations of the world, in the service of mankind.”
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‎“On his martyrdom day, we pay our deepest respects to former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna Rajiv Gandhi, a remarkable son of India who inspired hope and aspiration in millions across the nation,” Kharge said.
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‎He further said that Rajiv Gandhi’s leadership was marked by “vision, courage, and a deep belief in India’s future,” adding that his policies played a crucial role in preparing the country for the twenty-first century.
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‎Kharge noted that among Rajiv Gandhi’s transformative initiatives were the decision to lower the voting age from 21 to 18 years, strengthening grassroots democracy through Panchayati Raj institutions, and spearheading the telecom and information technology revolution in India.
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‎“He laid the foundations for the country’s journey into the twenty-first century,” Kharge said, while also highlighting the former Prime Minister’s push for computerisation, the Universal Immunisation Programme, key peace accords, and an “education policy centred on inclusive learning.”
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‎The Congress chief said Rajiv Gandhi’s legacy continues to influence India’s development trajectory and remains an inspiration for future generations.
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‎Rajiv Gandhi served as India’s Prime Minister from 1984 to 1989 and was awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumously in 1991. He was assassinated on May 21, 1991, during an election campaign in Tamil Nadu. His tenure is often associated with the expansion of India’s technology and telecommunications sectors, as well as efforts to modernise governance and administration.
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