Vajpayee’s Leadership a Guiding Light for Nation’s Development: PM Modi

New Delhi, Dec 25: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid rich tributes to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his 101st birth anniversary, saying that his personality, work and leadership will continue to serve as a guiding light for the all-round development of the nation.

Vajpayee, a Bharat Ratna awardee, served as Prime Minister of India three times between 1996 and 2004 and is widely remembered for his statesmanship and commitment to democratic values.

In a post on X in Hindi, Modi said, “My respectful tributes to former Prime Minister, Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji, who resides in the hearts of all countrymen, on his birth anniversary.” He said Vajpayee dedicated his entire life to good governance and nation-building.

The Prime Minister described Vajpayee as a brilliant orator and a spirited poet, whose vision and leadership continue to inspire generations. “His personality, work and leadership will remain a guiding light for the comprehensive development of the country,” Modi said.

Modi said Vajpayee’s birth anniversary is an occasion for the nation to draw inspiration from his life and values. He added that Vajpayee’s conduct, grace, ideological firmness and unwavering commitment to national interest set a benchmark for Indian politics.

“Through his life, he proved that greatness is not defined by position, but by conduct, and it is conduct alone that guides society,” the Prime Minister said.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee was born on this day in Gwalior in 1924 and passed away in New Delhi on August 16, 2018. His birth anniversary is observed across the country as Good Governance Day. (Agencies)