Modi Pays Tributes to India's First PM Jawaharlal Nehru on His Death Anniversary

New Delhi, May 27 - Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to India's first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, on his death anniversary Tuesday.

Leaders from various quarters remembered Nehru's contributions to India's freedom struggle and nation-building. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee hailed Nehru as a "great statesman and humanist" who was the visionary architect of modern India. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar also paid tribute to Nehru, saying his contribution to nation-building remains unparalleled.

Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) chief Sharad Pawar described Nehru as a "visionary leader" who laid the foundation of scientific approach, secular values, and democratic structure in India. Highlighting Nehru's balanced foreign policy, Pawar added that the balance he maintained in foreign policy while establishing India as an independent, neutral, and self-respecting nation on the international stage is still a subject of study.

Nehru served as interim Prime Minister beginning in September 1946 and later became the Prime Minister of the Dominion of India after independence. He was known for his iconic 'Tryst with Destiny' speech and is credited with shaping India's democratic institutions and its identity on the global stage.

Born on November 14, 1889, Nehru played a central role in India's freedom struggle. His final years were marked by declining health before he died of a suspected heart attack on May 27, 1964.

In honour of his affection for children, November 14 was later designated as Children's Day, a tribute to his enduring legacy.