PM Modi's tribute to Bharat Ratna Nanaji Deshmukh on birth anniversary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wished the late social activist Nanaji Deshmukh on his birth anniversary and remembered him for his contributions. The Prime Minister took to twitter to convey his message and said Nanaji Deshmukh has contributed immensely towards nation-building. The Prime Minister also said his contribution will always remain a source of inspiration for the countrymen.

Who was Nanaji Deshmukh? 

Nanaji Deshmukh was a social worker who contributed to anti-poverty causes and rural health and rural education. He was also instrumental in carrying out social restructuring programme in over 500 villages of both Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh states of India. He also established Chitarkoot Gramoday Vishwavidyalaya in Chitrakoot, India's first 'rural' University, and served as its Chancellor. 

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Nanaji Deshmukh as a politician

Nanaji Deshmukh was a long-time RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh) member.  As a politician, he took charge of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh in Uttar Pradesh as its general secretary. Deshmukh actively participated in the Bhoodan Movement started by Vinoba Bhave. However, when the 'Janata Party' offered him a role in the cabinet ministry, Nanaji Deshmukh spurned the overture. 

Nanaji Deshmukh was awarded the Padma Vibhushan for exemplary contributions in the field of education, health and rural self-reliance during Atal Bihari Vajpayee's tenure as the Prime Minister in 1999. In 2019, he was awarded the 'Bharat Ratna', India's highest civilian honour, by the Government of India. The award was received by family members of Nanaji Deshmukh. 

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'Virat Purush Nanaji' 

In 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the book, 'Virat Purush Nanaji' which has been compiled in six volumes by the Deendayal Research Institute. The book is a collection of the writings of late Nanaji Deshmukh. Prime Minister had appreciated Nanaji Deshmukh for his energy, drive and commitment towards social welfare and nation-building. The Prime Minister also praised Nanaji`s ability to forge political consensus. 

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