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Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee—the very mention of his name fills the heart with reverence, respect, and affection. He was not merely an individual, but an idea, a tradition, and an inspiration that transcended time, power, and circumstance. The offices he held did not define him; rather, his personality, conduct, and words lent dignity to every position he occupied. Thus, he was not just Vajpayee—he was Atal: unwavering, resolute, and immortal in his ideals.
On December 25, 2025, we commemorate the 101st birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee. This day is not merely the birth anniversary of a great leader, but a celebration of India’s democratic spirit, dignified politics, and the enduring tradition of good governance. It is for this reason that Atal Ji’s birth anniversary is observed as Good Governance Day, for his entire life stood as a living embodiment of good governance—governance guided not merely by rules, but by values; inspired not by power, but by duty.
His memorial at ‘Sadaiv Atal’ in New Delhi embodies this enduring truth. Nine square blocks of polished black granite, a lamp burning brightly at the center, and his prose and poetry inscribed on the surrounding walls—all convey that, although Atal Ji may no longer be with us physically, his thoughts, words, and vision for the
As a poet, Atal Ji was fearless; as a journalist, he remained vigilant in safeguarding national interests; as a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) pracharak, he was devoted to society; and as a politician, he dedicated his entire life to the service of the nation
nation continue to shine. Built with stones brought from different parts of the country, this memorial symbolizes the very India he envisioned—an India of unity in diversity.
As a poet, Atal Ji was fearless; as a journalist, he remained vigilant in safeguarding national interests; as a Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) pracharak, he was devoted to society; and as a politician, he dedicated his entire life to the service of the nation. For him, power was never an end in itself—it was merely a means of serving the people. That is why, when the time came to relinquish power, he did so without manipulation or bargaining. Such conduct is rare in today’s politics, yet for Atal Ji, it came naturally.
Between 1998 and 2004, under the leadership of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, India’s economic and administrative trajectory was redefined through a careful balance of development and inclusion. During a period of political instability, he provided stable and effective governance, enabling India to step confidently into the 21st century. His courage in conducting the Pokhran nuclear tests, coupled with his foresight in the field of development, were equally instrumental in shaping the nation’s progress.
The Golden Quadrilateral transformed the country’s economic landscape; the 1999 telecom revolution laid the foundation for Digital India; and the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana connected over 1.5 lakh villages to the mainstream of development. The FRBM Act established fiscal discipline as a cornerstone of good governance. Initiatives in the Delhi Metro, information technology, education, and telecommunications stand as lasting testaments to his vision and commitment to effective governance.
As Defence Minister and Prime Minister, Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee brought seriousness, professionalism, and long-term vision to national security. The establishment of the National Security Council after the Kargil War, reforms in the command structure, and the institutionalization of strategic planning significantly strengthened defence administration. His belief in self-reliance is now reflected in the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, where thousands of defence MSMEs are innovating, indigenous defence production is steadily increasing, and Make in India receives robust support.
In this continuum of continuous improvement and resolve, Operation Sindoor symbolizes India’s military readiness, indigenous capabilities, and maritime strength, sending a clear message of preparedness for maintaining peace. This very approach forms the foundation of Viksit Bharat@2047, where an inclusive, capable, and confident India is being built through the empowerment of villages, a strong defence system, and digital expansion.
Atal Ji’s politics were free from bitterness. Even while in opposition, he remained at the center of the national conscience. He never compromised on principles while in opposition and welcomed criticism even while in power. His resignation in 1996 on the grounds of principle, and his acceptance of defeat by a single vote in 1999, stand as enduring testaments to his unwavering commitment to Indian democracy and the Constitution.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee was not merely a three-time Prime Minister; he was an era—an era defined by dignified opposition and sensitive governance. He used to say:
“मौत की उम्र क्या है? दो पल भी नहीं,
ज़िंदगी सिलसिला, आज-कल की नहीं।”
He lived both his life and his politics guided by this perspective—not driven by fear or opportunism, but by steadfast values.
Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, upon Atal Ji’s passing, said: “I am speechless, I am in a void, but a surge of emotions is overwhelming me.” This void was not merely the loss of one individual, but the end of an era. Yet, as Prime
Atal Ji’s politics were free from bitterness. Even while in opposition, he remained at the center of the national conscience. He never compromised on principles while in opposition and welcomed criticism even while in power
Minister Modi observed, while Atal Ji is no longer physically with us, his inspiration and guidance will forever remain with every Indian.
I was fortunate to have the opportunity to work with Atal Ji on several occasions, which allowed me to observe and understand him closely. His words still resonate in my ears. He once affectionately said to me:
“Sanjay, always remain a dedicated party karyakarta. The organization runs on the strength of its karyakartas. And remember, serving the people is the greatest duty.”
These words were not just meant for me; they are a life lesson for every party karyakarta and every citizen.
There are many memories of Atal Ji that highlight the simplicity and sensitivity of his personality. In 1980, during a tour of South Chota Nagpur, after paying his respects at the Pisca Mod Gurudwara in Ranchi, he was traveling to Gumla. Along the way, he stopped his car near a hut, went inside, addressed the woman of the house as “Maa,” and respectfully accepted a simple meal of roti, bhujia, onions, and green chilies. In that moment, there was no formality—only a people’s leader deeply connected to the common man.
After the Prayagraj convention in 1981, a sudden meeting was requested in Ranchi with very little preparation. During the meeting, heavy rain began. When an umbrella was offered to him, Atal Ji said:
“जब तक तुम भीगते रहोगे, मैं भी भीगता रहूंगा।
जब तक तुम सुनते रहोगे, मैं बोलता रहूंगा।”
That sentence instilled new enthusiasm in the drenched crowd. Atal Ji continued speaking, undeterred by the rain—a scene that remains vivid in my memory.
In 1983, upon learning that a party worker had sold his new car to contribute to the party fund, he smiled and said from the stage:
“जितना राशन दिया, उतना भाषण दिया। अब और दिया है तो और बोलूंगा।”
Even in this simple humor, his deep respect for the organization and for sacrifice was evident.
For Atal Ji, patriotism was not merely a slogan; it was a way of life. Whenever I get the opportunity, I make it a point to read and recite one of his poems, for it reflects his unwavering love and devotion to ‘Maa Bharati’.
ये वंदन की धरती है, अभिनंदन की धरती है
ये अर्पण की भूमि है, ये तर्पण की भूमि है
इसकी नदी-नदी गंगा है
इसका कंकड़-कंकड़ शंकर है
हम जियेंगे तो भारत के लिए
मरेंगे तो भारत के लिए
मरने के बाद हमारी अस्थियों को कोई कान लगाकर सुनेगा
तो एक ही आवाज़ आएगी –
“भारत माता की जय”
At the inauguration of Seva Sadan Hospital in 1996, he said:
“I will not give the blessing that the hospital be full of patients, but rather I expect that you provide such service that people remain healthy.”
This was Atal Ji’s philosophy—the ultimate goal of service is not to treat suffering, but to promote health and dignity.
Today, this very tradition of Atal Ji is being carried forward in a modern context under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Embodying the spirit of minimum government, maximum governance, the Modi government has strengthened transparency, efficiency, and citizen-centric administration over the past 11 years. Governance has been simplified by repealing nearly 2,000 outdated rules. Initiatives such as self-certification, the elimination of interviews for lower-level positions, and the simplification of pension procedures have increased trust and transparency in administration. Systems like Digital India, Aadhaar-based authentication, faceless tax assessment, GST, CPGRAMS, and Direct Benefit Transfer have been implemented to improve service delivery.
Through various welfare schemes, services have reached the last person in line. Under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, 55.17 crore bank accounts have been opened; under the Ujjwala Yojana, more than 10.33 crore families have received cooking gas connections; and under the Swachh Bharat Mission, over 12 crore toilets have been constructed. The Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana provides free rations to 81 crore people. The PM-KISAN scheme has extended direct financial assistance to more than 12 crore farmers. Ayushman Bharat has offered health security to crores of families, the Jal Jeevan Mission has delivered tap water to over 13 crore households, and the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana has provided permanent homes to crores of Indian families. These initiatives have brought about tangible improvements in governance and significantly enhanced the living standards of the common citizen.
Recently, while addressing the nation, Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Modi said:
“Today, we stand in an India that is not only reaching new heights of development, but is also redefining its identity, its dignity, and its soul.”
He called for liberation from colonial mindsets, symbols, and oppressive identities. The decisions taken in recent years bear witness to this transformation: 7 Race Course Road was renamed Lok Kalyan Marg, Rajpath was transformed into Kartavya Path, the new Central Secretariat was named Kartavya Bhavan, and the new Prime Minister’s Office complex was named Seva Teerth. These are not merely changes in name—they represent a shift in mindset, systemic transformation, and a resurgence of national consciousness.
Names are symbols, and symbols shape culture. The coming genera tions should understand that the true essence of the Indian Administrative Service lies in public service and the fulfillment of duty.
Atal Ji’s poems continue to guide us even today—
“हार नहीं मानूँगा,
रार नहीं ठानूँगा,
काल के कपाल पर
लिखता-मिटाता हूँ।”
Today’s India is following the same path—breaking the shackles of the past and writing a glorious chapter for the future.
Atal Ji dreamed of a strong, self-respecting, and self-reliant India. The resolve to achieve a self-reliant India and a developed India by 2047 is the pathway to fulfilling that dream. This is not merely an economic goal, but a campaign for cultural and moral resurgence.
Atal Ji had said—
“हम जिएंगे तो इस तरह, कि इतिहास को गर्व हो।”
Today, India is moving forward with the same pride.
Ultimately, the life of Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee was like a living book. His thoughts, poems, and conduct continue to guide us even today. Whenever you feel despair in life or in politics, read about Atal Ji, listen to him—he remains alive among us through his words, his thoughts, and his ideals.
(The Writer is MoS, Defence, GoI)