Karpoori Thakur: Champion of the Downtrodden Awarded Bharat Ratna Posthumously
Karpoori Thakur Awarded Bharat Ratna Posthumously, A Major Recognition for Bihar’s Champion of the Underprivileged.
On January 23, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur would be posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor. This significant recognition comes just a day before Thakur’s 100th birth anniversary, marking a poignant tribute to his impactful life and legacy.
Born in 1924 in the village of Pithauraunja in Bihar’s Samastipur district, Karpoori Thakur served as the state’s Chief Minister on two occasions, in 1970 and 1977. He is widely remembered for his commitment to social justice and his unwavering efforts to improve the lives of the poor and marginalized sections of society.
I am delighted that the Government of India has decided to confer the Bharat Ratna on the beacon of social justice, the great Jan Nayak Karpoori Thakur Ji and that too at a time when we are marking his birth centenary. This prestigious recognition is a testament to his enduring… pic.twitter.com/9fSJrZJPSP
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 23, 2024
Karpoori Thakur: Championing the Underprivileged
Throughout his political career, Thakur championed policies aimed at empowering the underprivileged. During his first term as Chief Minister, he implemented land reform laws that granted farmers greater control over their land. He also actively expanded educational opportunities, recognizing education as a crucial tool for social and economic mobility.
His second term saw the launch of the “Kaam Do, Paisa Do” (Give work, give money) program, providing employment opportunities to the unemployed. Additionally, the “Ek Mutthi Daana, Ek Mutthi Kapda” (A fistful of grain, a fistful of cloth) program aimed to alleviate poverty by distributing food and clothing to the needy.
पूर्व मुख्यमंत्री और महान समाजवादी नेता स्व॰ कर्पूरी ठाकुर जी को देश का सर्वोच्च सम्मान ‘भारत रत्न’ दिया जाना हार्दिक प्रसन्नता का विषय है। केंद्र सरकार का यह अच्छा निर्णय है। स्व॰ कर्पूरी ठाकुर जी को उनकी 100वीं जयंती पर दिया जाने वाला यह सर्वोच्च सम्मान दलितों, वंचितों और…
— Nitish Kumar (@NitishKumar) January 23, 2024
A Beloved Leader: “Jannayak”
Karpoori Thakur’s dedication to the welfare of the underprivileged earned him immense popularity and the affectionate title of “Jannayak” (people’s leader). He was widely respected for his unwavering principles and commitment to serving the people. His legacy continues to inspire generations in Bihar, where he remains a revered figure and a symbol of hope and social justice.
The award of the Bharat Ratna is a fitting recognition of Karpoori Thakur’s exceptional contributions to India. His life and work serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of fighting for social equality and uplifting the lives of those who are most in need.
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Thakur’s legacy extends beyond policy implementation. He is also remembered for:
- His humble lifestyle and commitment to public service.
- His strong advocacy for the rights of farmers and laborers.
- His unwavering opposition to corruption and injustice.
Even after his death in 1988, Karpoori Thakur’s impact continues to resonate in Bihar. His life and work offer valuable lessons in leadership, social justice, and the unwavering pursuit of a better future for all.
