On the occasion of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s 100th birth anniversary, tributes poured in from across the nation, celebrating his remarkable contributions to India and his enduring legacy
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with several dignitaries, paid heartfelt tributes to Vajpayee, recognizing his indelible contributions to India’s progress.
PM Modi, in a tribute on his X handle, wrote:
“Respectful tributes to former Prime Minister Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee ji on his 100th birth anniversary. He dedicated his life to building a strong, prosperous, and self-reliant India. His vision and mission will continue to give strength to the resolve for a Viksit Bharat.”
A Monumental Tribute in Odisha
Marking the occasion, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi unveiled a life-size bronze statue of Vajpayee at Bellevue Square in Cuttack. Speaking at the event, Majhi described Vajpayee as a leader whose extraordinary personality and timeless contributions would keep him immortal in the hearts of the people.
Majhi highlighted Vajpayee’s commitment to fostering peace and harmony worldwide, saying, “Establishing peace across the world by promoting love and friendship among nations was the sole aim of his life.”
Taking to his X handle, Majhi expressed his honor in unveiling the statue, stating:
“I had the privilege of unveiling the full-length statue of our former prime minister, our guide and Bharat Ratna awardee Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Bellevue Square in Cuttack, which is a matter of great pride and honour for all of us. As a popular leader and a man of the times, his role in the development of Odisha and the entire country will be remembered forever.”
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, attending the event as the guest of honor, lauded Vajpayee’s diplomatic finesse. “Vajpayee ji made continuous efforts to establish peace in the world by extending the hand of friendship to every nation. His diplomatic policies have left the entire world in awe,” said Pradhan.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s Profound Ties with Odisha
Super Cyclone Relief (1999):
On October 29, 1999, a devastating Super Cyclone ravaged Odisha’s coastal areas, leaving behind massive destruction and loss of life. Vajpayee, then the Prime Minister, quickly visited the state to personally assess the calamity. He offered solace to the affected families and announced a Rs 250 crore central relief package. This assistance was essential in facilitating rescue operations and initiating the rebuilding of infrastructure. His assurance—”Funds will never be a constraint for rebuilding Odisha”—is still remembered by the people.
Paradip Oil Refinery Foundation (2000):
On May 25, 2000, Vajpayee laid the foundation stone for the Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) refinery in Paradip. This project, a landmark in Odisha’s industrial development, catalyzed economic growth and created job opportunities. The refinery later became a vital asset, positioning Odisha as a key player in India’s energy sector.
AIIMS Bhubaneswar (2002):
Recognizing the need to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in the eastern region, Vajpayee laid the foundation stone for AIIMS Bhubaneswar on July 15, 2002. The establishment of this premier medical institute was a transformative step in improving healthcare access for people in Odisha and neighboring states. Today, AIIMS Bhubaneswar stands as a testament to his vision for equitable healthcare.
East Coast Railway Formation (2003):
Vajpayee played a crucial role in the operationalization of the East Coast Railway (ECoR) on April 1, 2003. The new zone, headquartered in Bhubaneswar, significantly boosted the state’s connectivity and economic prospects. By facilitating the movement of goods and people, it strengthened Odisha’s integration with the national rail network, thereby accelerating regional development.
Advocacy for KBK Region:
The KBK region (Kalahandi-Balangir-Koraput), among the most impoverished and underdeveloped areas in India, was a focus of Vajpayee’s concern. While in the Opposition, he actively advocated for special assistance for the region in Parliament. His efforts helped draw national attention to the plight of the KBK districts, which eventually led to developmental interventions aimed at reducing poverty and improving living standards.
Alliance with Biju Janata Dal (BJD):
Vajpayee shared a warm relationship with Odisha’s former Chief Minister Biju Patnaik. After Patnaik’s passing, Vajpayee provided critical guidance to the BJD during its formation, helping it establish a strong footing in Odisha’s political landscape. As Prime Minister, he ensured the inclusion of the BJD in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), fostering a strategic alliance that benefited both the state and the nation.
Ministerial Portfolios for Odisha Leaders:
During Vajpayee’s tenure, several prominent leaders from Odisha were included in his cabinet. Naveen Patnaik, the current Chief Minister of Odisha, held the Steel and Mines portfolio, reflecting Vajpayee’s faith in young leadership. Jual Oram, another key figure, became India’s first Union Tribal Affairs Minister, highlighting Vajpayee’s commitment to empowering marginalized communities. Other leaders like Arjun Sethi, Braja Kishore Tripathy, and Dilip Ray also served in key positions, representing Odisha’s voice at the national level.
Inspiration for Grassroots Leadership:
Senior leaders such as Jual Oram and Debendra Pradhan have often spoken of Vajpayee’s influence on their political journeys. Oram described Vajpayee as a guiding force who motivated him to work diligently for tribal welfare, while Pradhan credited Vajpayee for inspiring him to serve the underprivileged with courage and dedication. Vajpayee’s leadership style instilled a sense of responsibility and purpose in those who worked with him.
Secular Leadership:
Despite being a stalwart of the BJP, Vajpayee was widely respected for his secular and inclusive approach. Odisha’s many senior congress leaders fondly recalled Vajpayee’s impressive persona and noted that his speeches often transcended party ideologies. Vajpayee’s ability to connect with people across political and social spectrums solidified his reputation as a leader who prioritized the nation’s interests above partisan considerations.
Immortal Legacy
The unveiling of Vajpayee’s statue in Cuttack is a tribute to a leader who dedicated his life to India’s progress and global harmony. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s heartfelt message, along with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s reflections, underscores the deep respect Vajpayee commands even today.
As CM aptly said, “His role in the development of Odisha and the entire country will be remembered forever.” Through his vision, compassion, and leadership, Atal Bihari Vajpayee remains immortal in the hearts of the people.
