1. Who was Parkash Singh Badal, and what is his legacy?
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| Late Parkash singh Badal with Narender Modi |
• Parkash Singh Badal, a prominent figure in Indian politics, is a seasoned politician known for his influential role in Punjab politics. Born on 8 December 1927, Punjab State of India, Died
On April 25, 2023 (aged 95), Badal will have had a political career that spans over seven decades.
• He had served as the Chief Minister of Punjab five times, making him the longest-serving Chief Minister in the history of the state. Let's delve into the timeline of Parkash Singh Badal's political career and his legacy:
• 1957–1977: Early Political Career Parkash Singh Badal began his political journey in 1957, when he was elected a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from the Lambi constituency in Punjab. He joined the Akali Dal, a Sikh-centred political party, and became a prominent leader known for his commitment to the welfare of the Sikh community. During this period, he also served as a minister in the Punjab government under Chief Minister Gurnam Singh.
• 1980–2002: Chief Minister of Punjab In 1980, Parkash Singh Badal was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Punjab for the first time. He held the office from 1980 to 1982 and then again from 1985 to 1987. However, his longest tenure as Chief Minister was from 1997 to 2002.
• As Chief Minister, Badal focused on agricultural reforms, rural development, and infrastructure projects. He also worked towards promoting Punjabi culture and protecting the rights of the Sikh community.
• Badal's tenure as Chief Minister was not without controversy. His government faced criticism for its handling of the Khalistan insurgency, a violent separatist movement seeking an independent Sikh state in Punjab. He also faced allegations of corruption and nepotism, with his family members holding prominent positions in the government and his son, Sukhbir Singh Badal, becoming the Deputy Chief Minister of Punjab.
• 2007–2017: Chief Minister for the Fifth Time Parkash Singh Badal's political career took another turn when he was elected Chief Minister for the fifth time in 2007. During his fifth term, he faced challenges such as issues related to farmer suicides, drug abuse, and youth unemployment in Punjab.
• He implemented several welfare schemes and development projects, including the construction of highways and irrigation projects. However, his government also faced criticism for its handling of sensitive issues and allegations of corruption.
• Parkash Singh Badal's political legacy is marked by his contributions to Punjab politics and the Sikh community. He is known for his emphasis on promoting Punjabi culture, language, and heritage. He has also been recognised for his efforts in improving agricultural practises, rural development, and infrastructure projects in Punjab.
• Badal's tenure as Chief Minister witnessed the expansion of educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and transportation networks in Punjab. He also played a key role in the construction of the Akal Takht, a prominent Sikh religious institution in Amritsar.
• 2014: Badal's Akali Dal party forms an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and wins all 10 Lok Sabha seats in Punjab in the general elections.
• 2017: Badal resigns as Chief Minister of Punjab after his party's defeat in the state assembly elections, concluding his tenure as the longest-serving Chief Minister of Punjab.
• Throughout his political career, Parkash Singh Badal made significant contributions to Punjab politics. He focused on issues such as agricultural reforms, rural development, social welfare initiatives, and infrastructure development, and was widely recognized for his dedication to the welfare of the people of Punjab. His political career spanned over six decades, making him a prominent figure in Indian politics and leaving a lasting legacy in Punjab's political landscape.
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2. Recognition & Honours Received by the Late Prime Minister During his Lifetime:
• Throughout his lifetime, Parkash Singh Badal, the former Chief Minister of Punjab, was recognized and honored for his contributions to politics and society. Let's take a look at some of the notable recognition and honors he received during his illustrious career:
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| Parkash Singh Badal: Award |
2.1 Padma Vibhushan:
• In 2015, Parkash Singh Badal was honored with the prestigious Padma Vibhushan award, the second-highest civilian award in India, for his outstanding contribution to public affairs.
2.2 Lifetime Achievement Award:
• Badal was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Punjab University in 2011 for his exemplary leadership and significant contributions to Punjab's development.
2.3 Fakhr-e-Quam (Pride of the Community):
• In 2007, Badal was honored with the title of "Fakhr-e-Quam" by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), acknowledging his dedication and service to the Sikh community.
2.4 Punjab Ratan (Jewel of Punjab):
• Badal was awarded the Punjab Ratan award by the Punjab Government in 2004 for his remarkable contributions to the state's progress and welfare.
2.5 Outstanding Parliamentarian Award:
• In 2001, Badal was conferred with the Outstanding Parliamentarian Award by the Indian President, recognizing his exceptional performance as a Member of Parliament (MP) in the Lok Sabha
2.6 National Integration Award:
• Badal received the National Integration Award from the All India Anti-Terrorist Front in 1998 for his efforts towards promoting peace, harmony, and national integration.
2.7 Sikh of the Year:
• Badal was honored with the "Sikh of the Year" award by the Sikh Forum International in 2012, recognizing his leadership and contributions to the Sikh community.
• These are just a few of the numerous recognition and honors that Parkash Singh Badal received during his lifetime. His dedication to public service, leadership qualities, and contributions to Punjab's development were widely acknowledged and celebrated, making him a respected and revered figure in Indian politics.
3. The People’s Champion - Parkash Singh Badal & His Stance on Caste-Based Discrimination:
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Parkash Singh Badal: Biography
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• He had also implemented affirmative action programmes to provide equal opportunities and support to people from lower castes in education, employment, and social welfare. Parkash Singh Badal had been a vocal advocate for inter-caste marriages to challenge caste-based discrimination and promote social integration. He had also taken steps to promote Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's ideals of a just and equal society.
• Badal had taken a strong stance against caste-based discrimination throughout his political career. He was vocal about the need to eradicate the caste system and ensure equal rights for all citizens. In his speeches and public appearances, Badal emphasized the importance of social harmony and unity and called for an end to caste-based discrimination and violence.
• After retiring from active politics, Badal continued to raise his voice against caste-based discrimination and advocate for social equality. His efforts had a significant impact on raising awareness about caste-based discrimination in Punjab and beyond, earning him the title of "People's Champion"
"May God Grant Peace to His Soul"
