On January 11, 2026, the nation observes the 60th death anniversary of Lal Bahadur Shastri, India’s second Prime Minister, who passed away mysteriously in Tashkent on this day in 1966, mere hours after signing the Tashkent Declaration that ended the 1965 Indo-Pak War.
A true son of the soil, Shastri rose from humble beginnings in Mughalsarai to become a symbol of integrity, simplicity, and selfless service. As Prime Minister from 1964 to 1966, he steered the country through war, food shortages, and economic challenges with quiet determination and moral courage. His immortal slogan “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan” (Hail the Soldier, Hail the Farmer) became a powerful unifying call, honoring the armed forces defending the borders and the farmers feeding the nation — a message that continues to resonate deeply in 2026.
Shastri’s leadership laid the groundwork for the Green Revolution, promoting agricultural self-reliance that transformed India from a food-deficit nation to one of the world’s largest food producers. Known as the “Man of Peace,” he lived an exemplary life of austerity — even voluntarily giving up his salary during crises to set a personal example.
“Jai Jawan Jai Kisan” — words that still inspire millions to value the guardians of our security and the providers of our sustenance. 🇮🇳