India became an independent country on 15th August 1947. After independence, the new government was formed, and many important leaders were given key responsibilities. One such important role was the Defence Minister of India, who looks after the country’s army, navy and air force. The first Defence Minister of independent India was Baldev Singh.
Baldev Singh was the first Defence Minister of independent India. He took charge on 15 August 1947 under Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. He played an important role during the Partition, helped protect people during riots, and led India in the First Kashmir War. He also helped in joining Hyderabad to India. As a strong leader, he helped build the Indian Army in its early days.
Baldev Singh was born to Inder Singh, a prominent steel magnate, in Jamshedpur. He received his education at Khalsa College, Amritsar and later joined his father’s company. However, his heart was drawn to the political landscape of the time and in the 1930s, he decided to return to Punjab and pursue a career in politics.
Baldev Singh’s political career took off when he won the Punjab provincial assembly election in 1937 as a candidate of the Panthic Party. This marked the beginning of his illustrious political journey. His close association with Master Tara Singh and the Shiromani Akali Dal further solidified his role as a representative of the Sikh community.
During critical moments in India’s struggle for independence, Baldev Singh played a significant role. He was part of delegations representing the Sikh community during the 1942 Cripps Mission and the 1946 Cabinet Mission. At the time, he advocated for the protection of minority rights while also recognizing the inevitable possibility of partition.
The aftermath of the partition in 1947 was marked by violence and upheaval. Baldev Singh, along with Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, took charge of leading relief and rescue operations. Their efforts were instrumental in providing aid and support to the affected populations in the wake of one of the most significant population migrations in history.
Baldev Singh’s role as the first Defence Minister of India was an evident to his leadership and commitment to the nation. He faced various challenges during his tenure, including the India-Pakistan war in 1947 and the accession of princely states like Junagadh and Hyderabad to India. His steady hand and determination helped India navigate these critical moments.
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In 1952, Baldev Singh was elected to the Parliament of India as a member of the Indian National Congress (INC) in the first democratic elections held under the new Constitution of India. He continued to represent the concerns of the Sikh community and was re-elected in 1957.
Sardar Baldev Singh’s legacy as a statesman who tirelessly represented the Sikh community and played a vital role in India’s early post-independence.
Baldev Singh’s role as the first Defence Minister of India was an evident to his leadership and commitment to the nation.
Sardar Baldev Singh, born on July 11, 1902, in Rupar district, Punjab, played a pivotal role in the struggle for India’s independence and went on to become first Defence Minister of India.
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