Jawaharlal Nehru Biography: Early Life, Career, Achievements and Legacy

Jawaharlal Nehru, often known as Pandit Nehru, was a transformative figure in India’s history. As the first Prime Minister of independent India, he played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s destiny during its critical formative years. This article explores Nehru’s life, family, political awakening, role in the independence struggle, leadership as the first Prime Minister, foreign policy and his lasting legacy.

Jawaharlal Nehru – Key Details

Birth date: 14th November 1889
Birth place: Allahabad, North- Western Provinces, British India
Parents: Motilal Nehru, Swarup Rani Nehru
Death: 27th May, 1964 at New Delhi, India

Jawaharlal Nehru – Early Life, Family and Education

Jawaharlal Nehru was born on 14^th November 1889 into a Kashmiri Brahman family to Motilal Nehru, prominent lawyer and leader in the Indian independence movement and Swarup Rani Nehru. Raised in a politically active environment, Nehru completed his early education under private tutors before venturing to England for further studies. He attended Harrow School, Trinity College, Cambridge and the Inns of Court School of Law, London, eventually becoming a barrister.

Jawaharlal Nehru – Political Journey

Nehru’s political journey began with his involvement in the Indian National Congress. He attended the Bankipore Congress in 1912 and became the Secretary of the Home Rule League in Allahabad in 1919. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, he actively participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-22) and faced imprisonment twice. Nehru’s commitment to India’s independence led him to various international forums, including the Congress of oppressed Nationalities in Brussels and the tenth-anniversary celebrations of the October Socialist Revolution in Moscow.

His leadership role grew and in 1928, he founded the ‘Independence for India League’ and became its General Secretary. Elected as the President of the Lahore Session of the Indian National Congress in 1929, Nehru played a crucial role in adopting the complete goal for India’s independence.

During 1930-35, he faced imprisonment multiple times due to his involvement in movements like Salt Satyagraha. Nehru’s political journey culminated in him becoming the first Prime Minister of independent India, where he hoisted the national flag and delivered his iconic speech, “Tryst with Destiny,” from the Red Fort.

Jawaharlal Nehru – Major Works as Prime Minister

As Prime Minister, Nehru left an indelible mark on the socio-economic and political landscape of India. He championed modern values, secularism and democratic socialism. Nehru focused on the country’s unity, initiated the first five-year plans in 1951 and advocated for India’s industrialization. His administration also promoted scientific and technological advancements, leading to the establishment of prestigious institutions like the Indian Institute of Technology and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences.

Nehru’s commitment to social reform was an evident in his support for free public education, providing free meals for children and enacting laws to empower women, including the right to inherit property and divorce. His legacy includes significant contributions to India’s education system and the initiation of India’s first Space Program.

Foreign Policy and Non-Alignment

Nehru’s foreign policy emphasized non-alignment, maintaining India’s independence from major power blocs. This policy, rooted in his commitment to peace, economic development and sovereignty, led to the formation of the Non-Aligned Movement in 1955, promoting cooperation among newly independent nations.

Jawaharlal Nehru – Death and Legacy

Jawaharlal Nehru’s legacy is marked by his belief in pluralism, socialism, liberalism and democracy. His deep love for children led to the celebration of his birthday as Children’s Day in India. Nehru’s vision and leadership paved the way for India’s progress in various fields and he is remembered for laying the foundation for the country’s modernization.

Awards Presented to Jawaharlal Nehru

Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, received several prestigious awards, these are:

Bharat Ratna in 1955
Lenin Peace Prize in 1955
Order of the Yugolsav Star in 1954
An award was also named after him, Jawaharlal Nehru Award for International Understanding, established in 1965.