Morarji Desai Biography

Morarji Desai was an Indian politician and statesman who served as the 4th Prime Minister of India. He was born on February 29, 1896, in Bhadeli, Gujarat, British India, and passed away on April 10, 1995, in Mumbai, India. Desai was known for his strong moral and ethical values, simplicity, and integrity. He played a significant role in the Indian independence movement and made valuable contributions to the country's political landscape.

Desai was deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi and actively participated in the non-cooperation movement and the civil disobedience movement led by Gandhi. He was imprisoned several times during the freedom struggle and even served as a mentor to prominent leaders like Jayaprakash Narayan.

After India gained independence in 1947, Morarji Desai held various key positions in the government. He served as the Chief Minister of Bombay State from 1952 to 1956 and later as the Finance Minister of India from 1956 to 1958. Desai played a crucial role in economic planning and financial reforms, focusing on agriculture and rural development.

In 1969, Desai left the Indian National Congress party due to differences with then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and joined the opposition, forming the Navnirman movement in Gujarat. The movement gained widespread support and led to a political upheaval in the state.

In 1975, when Indira Gandhi declared a state of emergency and suspended civil liberties, Morarji Desai became a vocal critic of her government. After the emergency was lifted in 1977, Desai played a pivotal role in forming the Janata Party, a coalition of various opposition parties. The Janata Party emerged victorious in the general elections held in 1977, and Morarji Desai became the first non-Congress Prime Minister of India.

During his term as Prime Minister from 1977 to 1979, Desai implemented several policy reforms. He focused on promoting self-sufficiency in food production, reducing government control over the economy, and improving ties with neighboring countries. However, his tenure was marked by internal conflicts within the Janata Party, and he eventually resigned in 1979.

After stepping down as Prime Minister, Morarji Desai continued to be active in politics and served as the leader of the Janata Party until its dissolution in 1988. He formed the Janata Dal party in 1988 but retired from active politics in 1996.

Desai's personal life was characterized by simplicity and discipline. He was a firm believer in naturopathy and advocated for its benefits throughout his life. He was known for his abstention from alcohol and tobacco and promoted the concept of prohibition during his tenure as Chief Minister of Bombay State.

Morarji Desai was honored with several awards and accolades, including the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, in 1991. He passed away on April 10, 1995, at the age of 99.

Morarji Desai's life and career were a testament to his unwavering commitment to ethical governance, social welfare, and the principles of non-violence and truth. He left a lasting impact on Indian politics and continues to be remembered as one of India's most respected leaders.