Governor pays homage to Atal Bihari Vajpayee on Governance Day

Governance Day was observed across the nation in honour of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s birth anniversary on 25 December, Monday. On this occasion, Governor Kalraj Mishra paid homage on the occasion of the birth anniversary of the late former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee at the Raj Bhavan. He offered floral tributes and observed a minute of silence in his memory.

The Governor mentioned that Late Atal Bihari Vajpayee was a staunch supporter of values associated with integrity in politics. His entire life was dedicated to governance with Indian culture and lofty life values. He urged everyone to internalise the ideals of Mr. Vajpayee. Amidst the celebration, it was worth recognising Vajpayee’s profound association with Rajasthan, particularly his pivotal role in establishing India’s nuclear prowess globally through Pokhran’s nuclear tests in the Jaisalmer district.

In May 1998, under Vajpayee’s leadership, India conducted a series of nuclear explosions in Pokhran, Jaisalmer, significantly elevating India’s stature in the world as a nuclear-capable nation. The explosions, conducted at the Pokhran firing range, not only stunned the world but also symbolised India’s entry into the League of Nations possessing nuclear capabilities. Vajpayee’s vision and leadership were instrumental in positioning Pokhran as a recognised hub of nuclear power. The tests, including a 58-kiloton nuclear bomb, demonstrated India’s scientific might, overshadowing even the historic atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima. The monumental event marked by the slogan “Jai Vigyan” (Hail Science) echoed Vajpayee’s declaration of India’s nuclear status during his visit to the Buddhist site on May 20.

This declaration positioned India as the sixth country on the list of nuclear-armed nations. His resolute leadership, coupled with the slogan “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan” (Hail the Soldier, Hail the Farmer), invoked immense pride and nationalistic fervour among citizens.

Vajpayee’s governance also extended to social inclusion. In a public gathering in Sikar, Rajasthan, in 1999, he announced the inclusion of the Jat community in the OBC category, a landmark decision that reshaped social dynamics in Rajasthan, signifying his commitment to inclusive policies.