Defense Minister Rajnath Singh Pays Tribute to Atal Bihari Vajpayee

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On August 16, 2025, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh paid homage to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee at his memorial, ‘Sadaiv Atal,’ in New Delhi, commemorating the seventh anniversary of Vajpayee’s passing.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, accompanied by Union Ministers JP Nadda, Kiren Rijiju, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, gathered at ‘Sadaiv Atal’ to honor Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his death anniversary. The ceremony included floral tributes and moments of silence, reflecting on Vajpayee’s enduring legacy in Indian politics.

In a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter, Singh wrote, “I pay homage to Atalji on his punyatithi. He worked all his life with the resolve of building a strong and prosperous India. The nation will always remember his tremendous contribution.” This tribute highlights the respect Vajpayee continues to command among political leaders across party lines.

Atal Bihari Vajpayee, born on December 25, 1924, in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, served as India’s Prime Minister on three occasions. He was the first non-Congress leader to complete a full term in office, holding the premiership from May 16, 1996, briefly, and then from March 19, 1998, to May 22, 2004. Vajpayee also served as India’s External Affairs Minister from 1977 to 1979 in Prime Minister Morarji Desai’s cabinet, shaping India’s foreign policy during a pivotal period. He passed away on August 16, 2018, at AIIMS Hospital in Delhi, leaving behind a legacy of statesmanship and national development initiatives.

During the commemoration, Singh praised Vajpayee’s vision for India, particularly his emphasis on strong governance, national unity, and international diplomacy. The Defence Minister noted that Vajpayee’s leadership fostered stability and progress, reinforcing India’s standing on the global stage. Leaders and citizens alike continue to reflect on his contributions to economic reforms, infrastructure development, and strategic policies that strengthened India’s security and international presence.

Earlier, Singh lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 79th Independence Day address, describing it as “excellent and inspiring.” He highlighted that the speech outlined India’s development trajectory, security plans, and the roadmap for achieving a ‘Viksit Bharat’, or Developed India, by 2047. The tribute to Vajpayee and the recognition of Modi’s vision reflect the government’s continued focus on national progress and strategic planning.

The ceremony at ‘Sadaiv Atal’ served as a reminder of the enduring impact of Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s leadership. His dedication to public service, diplomacy, and national development continues to inspire policymakers and citizens. Officials at the event emphasized the importance of following his example to strengthen India’s institutions, economy, and societal progress.

Overall, Rajnath Singh’s tribute underscores the lasting respect for Vajpayee across the political spectrum. His contributions to governance, foreign policy, and national development remain a benchmark for current and future leaders. The commemoration on his death anniversary reinforces India’s commitment to remembering visionary leaders whose legacies continue to shape the nation’s path toward growth, stability, and prosperity.