On the occasion of former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s centenary, the BJP Telangana State Office held a grand event, with Union Minister and BJP State President G. Kishan Reddy addressing the gathering. The celebration, recognized as Good Governance Day, highlighted Vajpayee’s unparalleled contributions to Indian politics and governance.
Extending heartfelt wishes to the people of Telangana, Kishan Reddy hailed Vajpayee as a leader who exemplified ethical values throughout his political journey. “From being a journalist to serving as the President of the Jan Sangh, a Foreign Minister, and eventually the Prime Minister of India, Vajpayee’s life was a testament to unwavering dedication to the nation and moral values,” he said.
The BJP leader underlined Vajpayee’s historic achievements, including the Pokhran nuclear tests, Golden Quadrilateral project, and Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, which transformed India’s infrastructure and rural connectivity. Reddy also credited Vajpayee for introducing the Kisan Credit Card, supporting farmers, and launching numerous housing schemes for the underprivileged.
“During his tenure as Foreign Minister, Vajpayee addressed the United Nations in Hindi for the first time, showcasing India’s cultural pride. In Parliament, his speeches were listened to with respect across party lines, a far cry from today’s opposition leaders who bring disrepute to the country with their actions,” Reddy remarked, taking a veiled dig at Rahul Gandhi.
Kishan Reddy praised Vajpayee’s principled politics, citing his decision to resign as Prime Minister despite the possibility of garnering support to save his government. “He upheld ethics and chose to step down, only to return stronger with the people’s mandate,” he said.
Touching on Vajpayee’s role in national security, Reddy highlighted his leadership during the Kargil war and his bold decision to conduct nuclear tests despite international pressure. “He made India a nuclear power, ensuring its place on the global stage,” he added.
Reddy also drew comparisons between Vajpayee’s legacy and the ongoing governance under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “Inspired by Vajpayee, Modi has propelled India to become the fifth-largest economy in the world, introducing transformative initiatives like Digital India and welfare programs for all sections of society,” he noted.
The minister called upon BJP workers to honor Vajpayee’s legacy by working tirelessly at every polling booth and bringing more youth into the party. He concluded by urging the celebration of Vajpayee’s centenary with service initiatives and by strengthening the party’s commitment to the welfare of marginalized communities.