2018-03-07 Wed

Govind Ballabh Pant, Indian freedom fighter and one of the architects of modern India breathed his last on 7th March 2018.

Born on August 30th in 1887, in the hills of Almora, Govind Ballabh Pant showed remarkable promise in school. After finishing school, young Govind went to Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh and enrolled at the Muir Central College. Soon, he became a known face among all his teachers and friends.

Govind joined the Congress in December 1921 and soon joined the non-cooperation movement. He was elected to the Uttar Pradesh (then known as United Provinces) Legislative Assembly as the candidate of the Swarajist Party from Nainital. When in Government, he tried to bring in reforms which would do away with the Zamindari system. He pleaded to the Government for lowering agricultural taxes on farmers.

After independence, Pant became the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. He worked for upliftment of the farmers and the eradication of untouchability. After the death of Sardar Patel, Govind Ballabh Pant was made the Home Minister in the Union Government. As a Home Minister, he was responsible for championing the cause of Hindi as the national language or Rashtra bhasa.

Today, as a mark of tribute, several Indian hospitals, educational institutions and foundations bear his name. To honour his exemplary services to the nation, Pant received India's highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, in 1957.

Pant lives forever in the hearts of the Indian people whom he served with all his energy and dedication right to his last breath.The Indian Department of Posts issued a commemorative stamp in his honour on 7 March 1988!

For more details click here.

Image Courtesy: Mintage World