The Congress leadership has harbored persistent discomfort with Rao’s tenure as the inaugural full-term non-Gandhi Prime Minister. Despite his notable economic and foreign policy reforms, his legacy remains overshadowed by the Babri Masjid’s demolition during his tenure.
he government on Friday conferred Bharat Ratna on former Prime Ministers Chaudhary Charan Singh and PV Narasimha Rao and agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan, who is known for his leading role in India’s ‘Green Revolution’, posthumously.
Earlier, the government had announced Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award in the country, for veteran BJP politician LK Advani and socialist icon and former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur.
Narasimha Rao: Fostered new era of economic development
PV Narasimha Rao’s grandson, NV Subhash, said the former PM’s contribution was ignored for a long time. “I am really delighted Narasimha Rao ji has got the Bharat Ratna. I am very happy and thankful to PM Modi. His contribution has been recognised,” NV Subhash said.Taking to X, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Narasimha Rao’s “visionary leadership” was instrumental in making India economically advanced, laying a solid foundation for the country’s prosperity and growth.