Atal Bihari Vajpayee was an eminent Indian politician and statesman who served as the 10th Prime Minister of India. Here's a brief biography of Atal Bihari Vajpayee:
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Early Life and Education:
Atal Bihari Vajpayee was born on December 25, 1924, in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, British India. He completed his schooling from Saraswati Shishu Mandir, Gwalior, and later pursued his higher education at Victoria College (now Laxmi Bai College), Gwalior, and DAV College, Kanpur. Vajpayee showed his inclination towards politics from an early age and was an active member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a right-wing Hindu nationalist organization.
Political Career:
Atal Bihari Vajpayee's political career began when he joined the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (BJS), the political arm of the RSS, in 1951. He emerged as a prominent leader and orator, known for his captivating speeches. Vajpayee was elected to the Lok Sabha (the lower house of the Indian Parliament) for the first time in 1957 and continued to be re-elected multiple times.
Vajpayee served as the External Affairs Minister in the Morarji Desai government from 1977 to 1979. During this time, he earned recognition for his diplomatic skills and played a key role in India's foreign policy initiatives. In 1980, Vajpayee founded the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), a right-wing political party, which later became a major force in Indian politics.
Prime Ministership:
Atal Bihari Vajpayee became the Prime Minister of India for the first time in May 1996, but his tenure lasted only 13 days due to the lack of a majority in the parliament. However, he returned as the Prime Minister in 1998 and led the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) coalition government. Vajpayee's second term as Prime Minister lasted from 1998 to 1999.
One of the significant milestones during Vajpayee's tenure was the nuclear tests conducted by India in May 1998, making India a nuclear-armed nation. He also focused on economic reforms, infrastructure development, and foreign policy initiatives. Vajpayee's government initiated several projects like the Golden Quadrilateral highway network and Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, aimed at improving connectivity and rural development.
Vajpayee's government completed its full term in 2004, but the BJP-led coalition lost the general elections that year. Atal Bihari Vajpayee stepped down as Prime Minister, and his tenure came to an end.
Later Years and Legacy:
After retiring from active politics, Atal Bihari Vajpayee remained a highly respected figure in Indian politics. Known for his moderation and inclusive approach, he was considered a statesman who aimed at fostering national unity and promoting India's interests on the global stage.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee's health declined in later years, and he passed away on August 16, 2018, in New Delhi. His death was mourned by the nation, and he was remembered for his leadership, oratory skills, and contributions to India's development.
Vajpayee's legacy continues to have a significant impact on Indian politics, and he is remembered as one of the most respected and influential leaders in India's history.