Morarji Desai (1896-1995)
Technical Data
| Stamp Set | Birth Centenary |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | April 10, 1996 |
| Denomination | Rs. 1 |
| Quantity | 400,000 |
| Perforation | comb 13 x 13½ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Nashik |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Deep Rose |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 1500 Stamp Number IN 1565 Yvert et Tellier IN 1282 Stanley Gibbons IN 1663 |
| Themes | Anniversaries and Jubilees | Famous people | Headgear | Men | Optical Instruments |
Table of Contents
Morarji Desai (1896-1995)
Morarji Desai was a significant figure in Indian politics, known for his role as the fourth Prime Minister of India and his Gandhian principles. Here’s a detailed overview of his life and contributions:
Early Life and Education
- Birth: February 29, 1896, at Bhadeli, near Bulsar, Gujarat.
- Family Background: Son of Morarji Desai, a teacher in Bhavnagar State, Saurashtra, and Vajiaben.
- Education:
- Started his education in a village school.
- Matriculated and graduated from Wilson College, Bombay, in 1912.
Personal Traits
- Values: Influenced by a religious and disciplined upbringing, which shaped his habits of self-discipline and thrift.
- Philosophy: Embraced Gandhian principles and was known for his straightforward approach, famously stating, “I seek neither popularity nor unpopularity. I am all for discipline.”
Political Career
- Early Involvement: Began his political career by participating in the freedom struggle and supporting Gandhian ideals.
- Prime Minister of India:
- Term: Became the fourth Prime Minister of India.
- Duration: Served from March 24, 1977, to July 28, 1978.
- Significance: Morarji Desai was the second Prime Minister to rise from very humble origins, following Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri.
- Resignation: Stepped down from his position on July 28, 1978.
Legacy
- Political Influence: Known for his commitment to discipline and simplicity, and his adherence to Gandhian values throughout his political career.
- Historical Role: Played a crucial role in the transition from the Emergency period to the re-establishment of democratic norms in India.
Morarji Desai’s tenure as Prime Minister was marked by his emphasis on discipline and simplicity, reflecting his background and personal values. His commitment to Gandhian principles and his significant role in Indian politics are remembered as key aspects of his legacy.