Tributes to former PM Rajiv Gandhi on his birth anniversary
Architect of India’s Computer Revolution and Visionary Leader
In the chronicles of modern Indian history, the name of Late Rajiv Gandhi will forever be etched in golden letters. The nation remembers him as the “Father of the Computer Revolution” and the “Architect of Modern India.” On the solemn occasion of his birth anniversary, the Rashtra Times family pays heartfelt tribute and bows in reverence to his enduring legacy.
Born on 20th August 1944, Rajiv Gandhi’s initial journey was far removed from politics. He served as a pilot with Indian Airlines and lived a life away from the political limelight. However, destiny took a decisive turn after the untimely demise of his younger brother, Sanjay Gandhi. Circumstances and the nation’s call led him into active politics. Following the tragic assassination of his mother, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, in 1984, Rajiv Gandhi became the youngest Prime Minister of India.
As Prime Minister, Rajiv Gandhi introduced visionary reforms and policies that transformed the face of the nation—
At a time when computers and modern technology faced opposition in India, he boldly embraced the future. His decision paved the way for India’s emergence as a global IT superpower.
His policies brought telephones within the reach of the common man, laying the foundation of India’s connectivity revolution.
In 1986, he introduced the New Education Policy. Through Technology Missions, he energized critical sectors such as literacy, water, agriculture, health, and communication.
Demonstrating his faith in the power of youth, he reduced the voting age from 21 to 18 years, granting millions of young Indians the right to participate directly in democracy.
He paved the way for the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, granting constitutional status to Panchayats and Municipalities, thereby deepening the roots of democracy in India.
In 1987, through the Indo-Sri Lanka Accord, he took a bold step towards regional peace and stability, marking a defining chapter in India’s foreign policy.
Rajiv Gandhi was not just a political leader but a visionary thinker with a modern outlook. He firmly believed that youth were the cornerstone of nation-building. His immortal words still resonate with India’s aspirations—
“India must be taken into the 21st century, and for this, we must embrace science, technology, and modern thinking.”
The India we witness today—as a rising technological and economic power—owes much to the foundations laid by Rajiv Gandhi. The dominance of Indian IT professionals across the globe, the success of multinational software companies, and the vision of a Digital India are all rooted in his foresight and initiatives.
On his birth anniversary, the Rashtra Times family bows in reverence and pledges to carry forward his dreams and ideals. The life of Rajiv Gandhi is not merely a political saga but the eternal story of the concept and creation of a modern India.
His memory shall forever live in our hearts.
