Jayaprakash Narayan, familiarly recognized as JP or Lok Nayak (People’s Leader), was born on 11th October 1902, in Sitabdiara, Bihar. This revered Indian independence activist, social reformer, and political leader significantly shaped India’s freedom struggle. His ideologies were a fusion of Marxist ideas he encountered in the US and Gandhian philosophy.
In 1929, he became part of the Indian National Congress and actively participated in major movements such as the civil disobedience movement and Quit India Movement.
The Bhoodan Yajna Movement & the Total Revolution
JP’s commitment to social justice was evident in his earnest support for the Bhoodan Yajna Movement, which was initiated by Vinoba Bhave. This movement aimed at land redistribution to the landless, a step towards economic equality.
In response to electoral law violations under Indira Gandhi’s regime, JP promoted the ‘Sampoorna Kranti’ or ‘Total Revolution’ program in 1974. This revolution encompassed seven key areas: political, social, economic, cultural, ideological, educational, and spiritual. His vision was to transform society based on Sarvodaya, a Gandhian philosophy that emphasizes progress for all.
Jayaprakash Narayan was honored with the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, posthumously in 1999. He passed away on 8th October, 1979.
Nanaji Deshmukh: An Icon of Social Activism
Nanaji Deshmukh, born on 11th October 1916 in Maharashtra’s Hingoli district, was a stalwart social activist, politician, and a central figure in India’s political dynamics. He played an instrumental role in Acharya Vinoba Bhave’s Bhoodan Movement and was a significant contributor to Jayaprakash Narayan’s agitation for total revolution.
Contributions Towards Social Reform & Education
Nanaji Deshmukh prioritized social reform, health, education, and rural self-reliance. His remarkable contributions to anti-poverty and minimum needs programs shaped India’s developmental strategies. He founded Chitarkoot Gramoday Vishwavidyalaya, India’s first rural university, and served as its Chancellor.
Appreciating his services to the nation, he was nominated to the Rajya Sabha in 1999. The President of India posthumously awarded him the Bharat Ratna in 2019. He died on 27th February 2010.
World Sight Day: A Global Call to Protect Vision
World Sight Day is held annually on the second Thursday in October and aims to raise global awareness about blindness and vision impairment. In 2023, the day falls on 12th October with the theme “Love your eyes at work”.
The WHO reports that at least 1 billion people globally suffer from near or distance vision impairment, which is preventable or yet to be addressed.
Operation Ajay: Ensuring Safe Repatriation from Israel
India has launched “Operation Ajay” to facilitate the safe return of its citizens from Israel. This operation involves organizing special charter flights and making necessary arrangements for their repatriation. A 24-hour Control Room has been set up in the Ministry of External Affairs to monitor the situation and provide necessary information and assistance.
SUGAM REC: A New Financial Instrument for Bond Investors
REC Limited, a Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Power, has developed a mobile application named ‘SUGAM REC.’ This app is designed specifically for investors in REC’s 54EC Capital Gain Tax Exemption Bonds.
REC Limited, established in 1969, functions as a non-banking finance company (NBFC), primarily focusing on financing and promoting the power sector across India. A type of fixed income financial instrument, these bonds provide tax exemptions on capital gains under Section 54EC of the Income Tax Act.
