Chaudhary Charan Singh: A Great Farmer Leader and Statesman (23 December 1902 – 29 May 1987)(Fifth Prime Minister of India)
Chaudhary Charan Singh: A Great Farmer Leader and Statesman (23 December 1902 – 29 May 1987)(Fifth Prime Minister of India)
Chaudhary Charan Singh was one of the rare Indian politicians who devoted his entire life to the upliftment of farmers, laborers, and the rural society. Known for his powerful oratory, principled leadership, administrative acumen, policy firmness, and personal integrity, he became a towering figure in Indian politics.
Early Life and Education
Chaudhary Charan Singh was born on 23 December 1902 in a humble farmer’s family in Noorpur village, Meerut district, Uttar Pradesh. From a young age, he was hardworking and scholarly. He completed his graduation in science in 1923 and earned a Master's degree from Agra University in 1925. Subsequently, he pursued law and began practicing as a lawyer in Ghaziabad.
Entry into Politics
In 1929, he moved to Meerut and became involved in the Indian freedom movement. In 1937, he was elected for the first time to the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly from the Chhaprauli constituency. He continued to win elections in 1946, 1952, 1962, and 1967, and built a strong reputation as an influential public representative.
Before India’s independence, in 1946, he was appointed Parliamentary Secretary in the interim government led by Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant. He worked in various departments such as Revenue, Medical, Public Health, Justice, and Information. In 1951, he became a Cabinet Minister in the UP Government, and in 1954, served as Revenue and Agriculture Minister under Dr. Sampurnanand’s leadership.
As Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh
Chaudhary Charan Singh served twice as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, first in 1967 and again in 1970. During his tenure, he introduced landmark land reforms. He effectively implemented the "Zamindari Abolition Act, 1960," paving the way for equitable land distribution and ending feudal landholding practices.
He also enforced the “Debt Relief Bill, 1939,” which provided substantial relief to rural farmers from exploitative moneylenders. His governance focused on eliminating corruption, nepotism, and social injustice.
As Prime Minister of India
On 28 July 1979, Chaudhary Charan Singh became the fifth Prime Minister of India, leading the Janata Party (Secular). Although his term was brief—ending on 14 January 1980—he emphasized policies prioritizing agriculture and rural development during this short period.
Writings and Ideology
Chaudhary Charan Singh was not only a political leader but also a thoughtful writer. He authored several significant works on farmers’ issues, rural economy, and land reforms. His notable books include:
- Zamindari Unmoolan (Abolition of Zamindari)
- Bharat Ki Garibi Aur Uska Samadhan (India’s Poverty and Its Solution)
- Kisano Ki Bhoosampatti Ya Kisano Ke Liye Bhoomi (Farmers’ Landholdings or Land for the Farmers)
- Prevention of Division of Holdings Below a Certain Minimum
- Co-operative Farming X-Rayed
These writings deeply analyzed the problems of rural India and suggested practical solutions.
Simple Life and Enduring Legacy
Chaudhary Charan Singh’s life reflected simplicity, honesty, and dedication. He never chased power or wealth, and his commitment to protecting farmers’ rights remained unwavering.
In his memory, India celebrates “Kisan Diwas” (Farmer’s Day) every year on 23 December.
Chaudhary Charan Singh passed away on 29 May 1987, but his ideas, policies, and spirit of public service continue to inspire Indian politics and society. He will always be remembered as one of India’s most respected and influential farmer leaders.
"If the Indian farmer is empowered, the nation will automatically prosper."
— Chaudhary Charan Singh
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Dr.Santosh Anand Mishra
Village - Mishrauli
Post - Kansi - Simri
Darbhanga
Bihar
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Dr.Shweta Jha
Ex Research Scholar
Magadh University
Bodhgaya
Bihar
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