Morarji Desai

Morarji Ranchhodji Desai was born on 29th February 1896 in Bhadeli, a village in the Bulsar district of Gujarat. He hailed from a deeply religious Bra

Morarji Desai Biography: The Life and Legacy of India’s First Non-Congress Prime Minister

Early Life and Education

Morarji Ranchhodji Desai was born on 29th February 1896 in Bhadeli, a village in the Bulsar district of Gujarat. He hailed from a deeply religious Brahmin family. His father, Ranchhodji Desai, was a school teacher, which played a significant role in shaping Morarji’s disciplined and principled character.

Desai pursued his education at Bai Ava Bai High School in Valsad and later attended the University of Mumbai, where he completed his graduation. Initially, he joined the civil services of Bombay Presidency and worked as a deputy collector.

Entry into Politics

Morarji Desai resigned from his civil services post in 1930 to join Mahatma Gandhi’s Civil Disobedience Movement against British rule. He became an active participant in India’s freedom struggle and was imprisoned several times.

After independence, he became an influential leader within the Indian National Congress (INC). He served as the Chief Minister of Bombay State (1952–1956) and played a key role in economic reforms and the reorganization of states on a linguistic basis.

Political Career and Role in Government

Desai held several important positions in the Indian government. He was Finance Minister and later Deputy Prime Minister under Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and Indira Gandhi. He strongly opposed economic policies that promoted socialist controls and emphasized free-market principles.

Prime Minister of India (1977-1979)

Following the Emergency (1975-77) imposed by Indira Gandhi, public discontent led to the formation of the Janata Party, a coalition of non-Congress opposition parties. In the 1977 General Elections, Congress suffered a historic defeat, and the Janata Party secured a majority. Morarji Desai became India’s first non-Congress Prime Minister on 24th March 1977.

During his tenure, he focused on:

• Restoring democratic rights by repealing draconian laws enacted during the Emergency.

• Economic liberalization and reducing government control over industries.

• Improving relations with Pakistan and China.

• Nuclear policy, where he halted India’s nuclear weapons program, advocating for global disarmament.

However, internal conflicts within the Janata Party led to its collapse, and Desai resigned in July 1979.

Later Years and Death

After retiring from active politics, Desai lived a simple life, practicing yoga and naturopathy. He was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1991 for his contributions to the nation. He passed away on 10th April 1995 at the age of 99.

Legacy

Morarji Desai is remembered for his honesty, discipline, and firm stand against corruption. His government played a key role in reviving democracy after the Emergency and reducing excessive government intervention in economic policies. His legacy continues to inspire leaders who advocate for transparency and democratic values.

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Morarji Desai’s life was a testament to integrity, determination, and selfless service to the nation. His tenure as Prime Minister, though short, had a lasting impact on Indian democracy and governance.