New Delhi

Vice President of India C P Radhakrishnan on Sunday took part in the birth centenary celebrations of former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. The programme was organised by the Atal Foundation, according to a statement from the Vice President’s Secretariat.

Addressing the gathering, the Vice President quoted a couplet from the Tamil classic Thirukkural to underline that while all people are born equal, true greatness is defined by one’s deeds. He described Vajpayee as far more than an individual, calling him a mission-driven leader who remained steadfast—“Atal”—in his principles and values throughout his life. Vajpayee, he said, continues to be revered for his contributions as a statesman, administrator, parliamentarian, poet and, above all, as a compassionate human being.

Radhakrishnan noted that Vajpayee strongly believed in dialogue, inclusive development and governance that was firm yet humane. He said Vajpayee enriched public life with dignity and civility, proving that politics can be both principled and empathetic. This, he added, is why Vajpayee’s birth anniversary is observed as Good Governance Day.

Recalling personal experiences, the Vice President said Vajpayee was always approachable and receptive to ideas from Members of Parliament across party lines. He referred to the formation of Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Uttarakhand during Vajpayee’s tenure as Prime Minister, describing it as a visionary move to improve administrative efficiency and governance.

Highlighting Vajpayee’s legacy as a nation-builder, Radhakrishnan cited major initiatives such as the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana and the Golden Quadrilateral highway project. He also referred to the 1998 Pokhran nuclear tests, saying they reflected Vajpayee’s decisive leadership and helped establish India as a confident and self-reliant nation.

The Vice President said Vajpayee’s vision continues to guide the country under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as India works towards the goal of Viksit Bharat @2047. He also recalled Vajpayee’s close association with Tamil Nadu and his respect for linguistic and cultural diversity, which earned him admiration across political and ideological boundaries.

Describing Vajpayee as a towering figure who shaped modern India with integrity and democratic values, Radhakrishnan said his life serves as a reminder that leadership is rooted in service, responsibility and commitment to the people.

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During the visit, the Vice President also unveiled a statue of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar at the Daly College premises. Calling her a visionary ruler, he said Ahilyabai Holkar dedicated her life to public welfare and good governance. He further congratulated Indore for consistently being ranked the cleanest city in the country, terming it a testament to collective civic responsibility.