PM Modi Pays Tribute to Lal Bahadur Shastri, Recalls His Simplicity and Dedication

New Delhi, Oct 2 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid homage to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on his birth anniversary, recalling his simplicity, humility and unwavering dedication to the nation.

In a post on social media platform X, Modi said, “Homage to Lal Bahadur Shastri Ji, whose simplicity and dedication to the nation remain deeply inspiring.”

Born on October 2, 1904, in Mughalsarai, Uttar Pradesh, Shastri joined India’s freedom movement and later held several key positions in independent India before becoming the country’s second Prime Minister in 1964.

His tenure coincided with several major challenges, including the 1965 India-Pakistan war and severe food shortages. His leadership during the war, emphasis on self-reliance and efforts to promote national unity remain among the defining aspects of his brief tenure.

Shastri’s famous slogan, “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan,” underscored the important role of soldiers and farmers in safeguarding the nation and strengthening its economy.

Known for his personal integrity, humility and simple lifestyle, Shastri came to represent a style of public service marked by austerity and a strong sense of duty.

Shastri died in Tashkent, then part of the Soviet Union, on January 11, 1966, shortly after the signing of the Tashkent Declaration with Pakistan.

His birth anniversary is observed on October 2, alongside that of Mahatma Gandhi. The day serves to remember the contributions and ideals of both leaders and their role in India’s freedom struggle, public service and nation-building.