L. K. ADVANI – AWARDS

News: LK Advani to be honoured with Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award

 

What's in the news?

       Recently, the Prime Minister announced that LK Advani will be conferred Bharat Ratna 2024, India’s highest civilian award.

 

LK Advani:

Birth:

       Born in Karachi on November 8, 1927, against the backdrop of pre-Partition India.

 

Influence by:

       Teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and the freedom struggle.

       Early affiliation with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Bharatiya Jana Sangh.

 

Initial Political Involvement:

       Entry into politics through RSS and membership in Bharatiya Jana Sangh in 1951.

       Elected to the Rajya Sabha in 1970, marking the beginning of significant political involvement.

 

Epoch of the BJP:

       Co-founder of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 1980.

       Key role in transforming BJP from a regional force to a dominant national player.

       Shaped BJP’s ideology and electoral strategy.

 

Role in Ram Mandir:

       Advocacy for Ram Janmabhoomi movement in the 1980s.

       Support for Ayodhya Ram mandir construction galvanised Hindu sentiments.

       Influenced Indian politics and BJP’s ascent to power.

 

Tenure as Deputy Prime Minister:

       Served as India’s Deputy Prime Minister from 2002 to 2004.

       Contributions to economic reforms, infrastructure development and nuclear tests of 1998.

 

Champion of Democratic Values:

       Steadfast advocate for democracy throughout his career.

       Leader of the Opposition, promoting constructive dissent and dialogue.

 

Awards and Recognition:

L.K. Advani has been conferred with the following awards by Government of India:

       Padhma Vibhushan – 2015

       Bharat Ratna – 2024