PM Modi Pays Homage to Jawaharlal Nehru on Birth Anniversary as India Celebrates Children’s Day
The Prime Minister remembered India's first premier on his birth anniversary, observed nationwide as Children's Day in recognition of his enduring affection for children and their future.
NEW DELHI, Nov 14: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid homage to India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, on the occasion of his birth anniversary, as the country celebrated Children’s Day.
Taking to social media platform X, Modi remembered the former prime minister and freedom movement leader, writing, “Paying tribute to former PM Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on his birth anniversary.”
Born on November 14, 1889, in Allahabad, now known as Prayagraj, Nehru became independent India’s first prime minister on August 15, 1947. He held the office until his death on May 27, 1964, making him one of the longest-serving leaders in the country’s history.
Nehru was among the prominent figures of India’s struggle for independence and worked closely with several leaders of the national movement. Following Independence, he assumed a central role in laying the foundations of the country’s democratic institutions, governance system and development policies.
His leadership during the early decades of Independence was marked by efforts to strengthen parliamentary democracy, promote secular values and encourage scientific thinking. He also emphasised the importance of education, industrialisation and research in building a modern and self-reliant nation.
Several major educational and scientific institutions were established or expanded during his tenure. These included the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), which later became important centres for professional education, medical research and advanced healthcare.
Nehru also supported the development of major infrastructure projects, public-sector industries and scientific research facilities. He believed that investment in education and technology was essential for improving living standards and ensuring long-term national progress.
Children’s Day Celebrations Across India
November 14 is observed as Children’s Day throughout India to commemorate Nehru’s birth anniversary and recognise his special bond with children. Affectionately known as ‘Chacha Nehru’, he was widely associated with the belief that children deserved care, opportunities and access to quality education.
The occasion highlights the importance of protecting children’s rights, ensuring their well-being and creating an environment in which they can grow, learn and contribute meaningfully to society.
Schools and educational institutions across the country mark the day through cultural programmes, competitions, performances and other activities. The celebrations also provide an opportunity to underline the responsibilities of families, educators and policymakers in supporting children’s development.
Nehru’s emphasis on education and the younger generation reflected his belief that the country’s future depended significantly on how its children were nurtured. He regarded them as an important foundation for India’s social and economic advancement.
The birth anniversary is therefore remembered not only as an occasion to pay tribute to a key figure in the country’s political history but also as a day dedicated to childhood, education and the aspirations of future generations.
