News: Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan paid homage to India’s first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, on his birth anniversary.
About Dr. Rajendra Prasad – First President of India
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad was born on December 3, 1884, in Ziradei, Bihar.
- He studied at the University of Calcutta.
- He began his career as a lawyer and was admired for his sharp legal intellect.
- Role in the Freedom Struggle: The freedom movement inspired him to leave his legal practice and join national politics.
- He became a close associate of Mahatma Gandhi and actively participated in major movements such as Non-Cooperation and Civil Disobedience Movements.
- In 1906, he played a key role in founding the Bihari Students Conference, which became an important platform for nurturing nationalist thought.
- Leadership in the Constituent Assembly: After Independence, he was elected President of the Constituent Assembly tasked with drafting the Constitution of India.
- He also chaired the Assembly’s committee on food and agriculture, contributing to crucial policy discussions.
- His leadership ensured balanced debate, consensus-building, and adherence to democratic procedures.
- First President of India: On January 26, 1950, Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected as the first President of India.
- His presidency (1950–1962) was distinguished by humility, impartiality, and steadfast commitment to democratic values.
- He is the only President of India to have served two full terms.
- His 12-year tenure from 1950 to 1962 continues to be the longest presidency India has ever seen.
- Later life and legacy: After completing his tenure, he retired from active public life and lived at Sadaqat Ashram in Patna.
- He passed away on February 28, 1963.
