Rajiv Gandhi’s 82nd birth anniversary marked with tributes to his vision

Congress leaders on Thursday paid floral tributes to former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his 82nd birth anniversary, remembering his contribution to India’s technological progress, youth empowerment and education.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra paid tributes at Rajiv Gandhi’s memorial, Veer Bhumi, in New Delhi.

Congress recalls Rajiv Gandhi’s vision

Kharge described Rajiv Gandhi as a visionary leader who helped prepare India for the opportunities of the 21st century. He said his legacy continued through the changes he championed and his faith in India’s youth, technological progress and new ideas.

Kharge said the most meaningful tribute would be to strengthen the country’s spirit of empathy, harmony and reconciliation while encouraging innovation and the aspirations of young people.

Rahul Gandhi, in a post in Hindi, remembered his father’s emphasis on harmony, compassion, justice and democracy. He said the resolve to build the India Rajiv Gandhi dreamed of would continue to guide him.

Focus on youth and technology

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh highlighted several initiatives associated with Rajiv Gandhi’s tenure as prime minister.

He recalled that the voting age was reduced from 21 to 18, giving millions of young Indians the right to vote. Ramesh also pointed to the New Education Policy of 1988 and the expansion of Navodaya Vidyalayas.

He further recalled the establishment of the Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan across districts and Rajiv Gandhi’s push to take India decisively into the information technology era.

Remembered for national service

Congress general secretary K C Venugopal described Rajiv Gandhi as a dynamic leader who worked towards preparing India for the 21st century.

Rajiv Gandhi became India’s youngest prime minister and served from 1984 to 1989. He was assassinated in 1991 by a suicide bomber belonging to the LTTE.

Congress leaders and workers across the country marked his birth anniversary, recalling his political legacy and vision for India.