Page 9 - NIS English 1-15 April, 2026

Babu Jagjivan Ram | PERSONALITY

Who gave a

befitting reply

to Pakistan in

the 1971 war

BORN: APRIL 5, 1908,
DEATH: JULY 6, 1986

Babu Jagjivan Ram, a prominent figure in Indian politics, fought for an inclusive and
egalitarian society throughout his life. As Minister of Food and Agriculture, he is credited
with the success of the Green Revolution in India, while as Defence Minister, he led India
to a historic victory in the 1971 war, which resulted in the creation of Bangladesh. His
commitment to social justice will always remain source of Inspiration…

abu Jagjivan Ram was a great freedom fighter the success of the ‘Green Revolution’ in India, while
and national leader who fought tirelessly for as Defence Minister, he led India to the historic win
Bthe upliftment of the downtrodden. He was in the 1971 war that saw the birth of Bangladesh. As
born on April 5, 1908, in Bhojpur, Bihar. Jagjivan an administrator, his services to India were incom-
Ram inherited ideal human values and wisdom parable. This great nationalist leader passed away
from his father, who was a religious person. Affec- on July 6, 1986.
tionately known as Babuji, Jagjivan Ram tirelessly Paying tribute to former Deputy Prime Minister
fought for the upliftment of Dalits. Babu Jagjivan Babu Jagjivan Ram on his birth anniversary on
Ram, who idolised Mahatma Gandhi, was detained April 5, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said,
on December 10, 1940, and was again arrested on “His lifelong struggle for the rights of the deprived
August 19, 1942, for his active participation in the and oppressed will always remain a source of
Quit India Movement. Upon his release from prison, inspiration. Babu Jagjivan Ram dedicated his life to
he became the youngest minister in the interim the welfare of the poor. He devoted many years to
central government in 1946. He was also a member serving the nation. Babu Jagjivan Ram wanted two
of India’s Constituent Assembly. things: a strong India and a democratic India. When
Earlier, in 1936, he became a legislator at the age we strongly retaliated against Pakistan, Babu Ji was
of 28 as a nominated member of the Bihar Legisla- the Defence Minister of India.
tive Council. He was a Cabinet Minister for 35 years He was the first Congress leader to raise his voice
– the longest-serving minister, handling several key against the Emergency. During those difficult days,
portfolios. He brought about path-breaking reforms. when people were getting arrested, he emerged as a
As Food and Agriculture Minister, he is credited with voice of strength and encouraged people not to fear.n

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