Narendra Modi writes: Atal Bihari Vajpayee understood the need to strengthen Indian democracy

The long-term impact of Atal's leadership can be seen in several sectors around us. His era marks a giant step forward in the world of information technology, telecommunications and communications. This was particularly important for a nation like ours with a vibrant yuva shakti. The NDA government under Atal ji made the first serious attempt to make technology accessible to citizens. At the same time, he was far-sighted to connect India. Even today, most people remember the Golden Quadrilateral project that connected the length and breadth of India. Equally notable have been the Vajpayee government's efforts to improve local connectivity through initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. Similarly, his government has given a boost to metro connectivity by carrying out major works for the Delhi Metro, which stands out as a world-class infrastructure project. The Vajpayee government not only boosted economic growth but also brought remote areas closer together, thereby promoting unity and integration.

When it comes to the social sector, an initiative like Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan shows how Atal ji dreamed of building an India where modern education would be accessible to every citizen across the country, especially the poor and marginalized sections. At the same time, his government presided over numerous economic reforms that paved the way for India's economic rise after several decades of economic philosophy encouraging cronyism and stagnation.

A wonderful example of Vajpayee jis's leadership can be seen in the summer of 1998. His government had just assumed office and on May 11, India conducted the Pokhran Tests, known as Operation Shakti. These tests illustrate the prowess of the Indian scientific community. The world was stunned that India carried out these tests and expressed its anger unequivocally. Any ordinary leader would have given in, but Atal ji was created differently. And what happened? India held firm and the government requested a new round of testing two days later, on May 13. If the tests of May 11 demonstrated scientific competence, those of May 13 showed true leadership. It was a message to the world that the days of India giving in to threats or pressure were over. Despite international sanctions, the then NDA government of Vajpayee ji stood firm, asserting India's right to safeguard its sovereignty while being the strongest advocate of world peace.

Atal ji understood Indian democracy and also the need to make it stronger. Atal ji presided over the creation of the NDA, which redefined coalitions in Indian politics. He brought people together and made the NDA a force for development, national progress and regional ambitions. His parliamentary genius was manifested throughout his political career. He belonged to a party with a handful of MLAs, but his words were enough to shake the might of the all-powerful Congress party at the time. As prime minister, he toned down opposition criticism with style and substance. His career was spent largely in opposition but never contained the slightest trace of bitterness against anyone, even if the Congress sank to new lows by going so far as to call him a traitor.

He was also not the type to cling to power through opportunistic means. He preferred to resign in 1996 rather than follow the path of bargaining and dirty politics. In 1999, his government was defeated by one vote. Many people told him to challenge the immoral politics going on at the time, but he preferred to play by the rules. Finally, he returned with another resounding mandate from the people.

President KR Narayanan administering the oath of office to Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in 1999. (Express Archives)

When it comes to also committing to protect our Constitution, Atal ji stands tall. He was deeply affected by the martyrdom of Syama Prasad Mookerjee. Years later, he was a pillar of the anti-emergency movement. As the 1977 elections approached, he agreed to the merger of his own party (Jana Sangh) into the Janata Party. I'm sure it would have been a painful decision for him and others, but saving the Constitution was all that mattered to him.

It is also worth noting how deeply rooted Atal ji was in Indian culture. On becoming Indian Foreign Minister, he became the first Indian leader to speak in Hindi at the United Nations. This gesture alone showed his immense pride in India's heritage and identity, leaving an indelible mark on the world stage.

Atal jis's personality was magnetic and his life was enriched by his love for literature and expression. A prolific writer and poet, he used words to inspire, provoke thought and even offer comfort. His poetry, which often reflects his inner struggles and hopes for the nation, continues to resonate with people of all ages.

For so many Bharatiya Janata Party karyakartas like me, it is our privilege to have been able to learn and interact with a person like Atal ji. His contribution to the BJP was fundamental. At that time, spearheading an alternative narrative to the dominant Congress showed his greatness. Alongside stalwarts like LK Advani ji and Murli Manohar Joshi ji, he nurtured the party from its formative years, guiding it through challenges, setbacks and triumphs. Whenever there was a choice between ideology and power, he always chose the former. He succeeded in convincing the nation that an alternative worldview from Congress was possible and that such a worldview could be effective.

On his 100th jayanti, let us rededicate ourselves to the realization of his ideals and the realization of his vision for India. Let us strive to build an India that embodies its principles of good governance, unity and progress. Atal ji's unwavering belief in our nation's potential continues to inspire us to aim higher and work harder.

The writer is Prime Minister of India