Freeindia > Biographies > Freedom Fighters > Babu Jagjivan Ram
Babu Jagjivan Ram was a valiant fighter in India's struggle for independence, a great inspirer and organiser of people against oppression, a powerful orator, a distinguished parliamentarian and an asture political administrator.
He was born on April 5, 1908 in village Chandwa in Bhojpur District of Bihar. the story of his life is a sage of rise from abysmal depths to great heights. He lost his father at an early age and faced acute financial hardships. He faced untouchability in school as well as in Banaras Hindu University where he had gone for higher education. After obtaining the B. Sc. degree from Calcutta University, he actively participated in the reformist movements led by Gandhiji and plunged into the freedom movement. He spent many years in jails during the Civil Disobedience Movement of 1940 and the Quit India Movement of 1942. He appeared before the cabinet Mission in 1946 as a representative of the depressed classes of the country and frustrated the designs of the British and other divvies forces to further divide India.
In post-independence India, his contribution to nation-building has left an indelible mark. As Communications Minister (1952-56), henationalised the private airlines, and founded the Indian Airlines and Air India and spread the postal facilities to the remote villages. As Minister for Railways (1956-62), he modernised the Railways. As Food and Agriculture Minister (1967-70) he made India self-sufficient in food. His tenure as Defence Minister (1970-74) saw the liberation of Bangla Desh. In 1977, he resigned from Congress and became instrumental in the victory of the Janata Party. He held the position of Deputy Prime Minister (Defence) in the Janata Government, he established Congress (J). His uninterruptedrepresentation in the Parliament from 1936 to 1986 is a world record.
Leaving behind the message of equality, be breathed his last on July 6, 1986.
Copyright © by FreeIndia.Org - India Site dedicated to freedom movement, education, culture, All Right Reserved.
