Whenever the foundation of modern India's development is discussed, one name invariably comes to the forefront—Rajiv Gandhi. Becoming India's youngest Prime Minister, Rajiv Gandhi was not merely a leader but a visionary who steered the nation towards a new direction with far-sighted decisions in fields such as science, technology, education, and democratic empowerment. On the occasion of his death anniversary on May 21st, let us explore five of his most significant contributions that transformed the face of India.
Laying the Foundation for the Digital Revolution
The digital India we speak of today was envisioned and its foundation laid by Rajiv Gandhi in the 1980s. He understood that for India to advance on the global stage, self-reliance in Information Technology (IT) and telecommunications was crucial.
In line with this vision, he established C-DOT (Centre for Development of Telematics) in 1984. This institution initiated the expansion of telephone networks across the country. As a result, communication facilities reached even remote villages, connecting rural populations to the nation and the world.
MTNL (Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited) was launched in 1986, on his initiative, streamlining urban telephone services. The mobile and internet revolution that India proudly boasts of today was fundamentally established by Rajiv Gandhi.
Bringing Computers to the Masses
There was a time when computers in India were perceived as job killers. However, Rajiv Gandhi challenged this notion and championed the adoption of computers.
He collaborated with scientist Sam Pitroda to initiate a computer revolution in the country. Import duties on computer hardware were reduced to make them more affordable and accessible to a wider population.
Computerized ticket booking in Indian Railways, the digitization of government offices, and technological improvements in banking services were all outcomes of his vision.
To promote computer literacy, computer science was integrated into school curricula, and technical education institutions were strengthened.
Lowering the Voting Age to 18
Rajiv Gandhi had unwavering faith in the power of young India. At the time, the voting age in India was 21, which he reduced to 18.
Through the 61st Constitutional Amendment in 1989, he empowered millions of young people with the right to political participation. This not only provided youth with a voice in democracy but also infused new energy and perspectives into the nation's political landscape.
This decision encouraged young people to play an active role in politics and made democracy more inclusive.
Constitutional Recognition for Panchayati Raj
One of Rajiv Gandhi's most significant democratic achievements was his initiative to empower the Panchayati Raj system. He believed that true democracy could not be achieved unless villagers themselves made decisions about their development.
He had the 64th Constitutional Amendment Bill drafted concerning Panchayati Raj. Although this bill did not become law during his lifetime, the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, passed in 1992, based on his vision, granted constitutional status to Panchayats.
Subsequently, Panchayat elections became mandatory across the country from April 24, 1993, leading to decentralization of power. Today, the direct participation of people in villages, from Sarpanch to Block Pramukh, is a testament to his vision.
Establishment of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas
Rajiv Gandhi also deeply believed in the power of education. He felt that talent was not limited to cities but existed in villages as well, and deserved equal opportunities.
In 1986, he announced the National Education Policy, which included a plan for establishing Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas.
These residential schools were established in rural areas across the country, providing free education, food, and accommodation to meritorious students selected through entrance examinations.
Today, over 550 Navodaya Vidyalayas are functioning across the country, educating lakhs of students. It is a result of Rajiv Gandhi's foresight that students from backward areas of the country are now making their mark on the global stage.
Although Rajiv Gandhi tragically passed away, the seeds he sowed have grown into a vast tree. His vision shaped not just the present but also the future. His landmark decisions in technology, education, democracy, and youth empowerment remain the pillars of India's development.
