The former Prime Minister was only an Indian, accepting both Bharat Ratna and Nishan-e-Pakistan, whose name is…
Born in Gujarat, he played a key role in India’s freedom struggle and later became Prime Minister of India.
Morarji Desai is one of India’s most respected political leaders, remembered for his honesty, discipline and lifelong commitment to public services. Born in Gujarat, he played a key role in India’s freedom struggle and later became Prime Minister of India. He led the country from 1977 to 1979 and became the first prime minister to lead a non-congressional government, thus making history. Desai’s political career spans fifty years. He began his role as Chief Minister of Mumbai in 1952, and later served as chief positions such as Minister of Commerce and Industry in 1956, and as Minister of Finance in 1958. In 1967, he was appointed Deputy Prime Minister of Indira Gandhi, but split up with her due to differences.
In the 1975 emergency, Desai was sentenced to jail like many opposition leaders. After his release in 1977, he led the Janata Party to a historic victory and became Prime Minister at the age of 81.
His time in the office focuses on ending corruption and promoting transparency. Although his government lasted only 28 months due to internal conflicts, he left a big mark on Indian politics.
Desai is admired not only in India, but throughout the border. In 1990, Nishan-e-Pakistan’s efforts were made to improve the ties between the two countries. In 1991, India awarded him Bharat Ratna. He is still the only Indian to receive both honors.
Morarji Desai died on April 10, 1995 at the age of 99. His legacy reminds us that politics can be rooted in honesty, simplicity, and a deep commitment to the country.
