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Chakravarti Rajagopalachari
Chakravarti Rajagopalachari was born on 10 December 1878 in the Salem District of the Madras Presidency. He was well known as a politician, writer, Indian lawyer, and independence activist. From 1937-1939 he initiated a major movement for Dalits by removing restrictions on entering their Hindu temples, easing the debt burden of farmers, and compulsory education of Hindi in Institute. He is also a founder of the Salem Literary society and gives suggestions for the welfare and scholarship of Dalit students. He introduced the ‘Modified System of Elementary Education.
After Lord Mountbatten left India in 1948, he became the first and last Governor General of India and held that position till 1950. In 1959, he formed the Swatantra Party against Congress, and this party stood for equality and government control over the private sector. He also worked in many other highest positions like Premier of the Madras Presidency, Minister of the Home Affairs of the Indian Union, Governor of West Bengal, and Chief Minister of the Madras State. He is always remembered for his remarkable and distinctive contribution to our country. For this contribution, he was one of the first recipients to get the highest civilian award in India, the Bharat Ratna, in 1954.
Bharat Ratna Award
The highest civilian award of the Republic of India is known as BHARAT RATNA. It came into existence on 2 January 1954. The award was in recognition of extraordinary performance in literature, science, public services, and arts. This award belongs to all people of India without discrimination of sex, race, or age. Previously award belonged to only limited criteria, but in December 2011, the criteria were changed to include all fields of human endeavour.
Maximum 3 nominees may be awarded per year, and the PM especially makes recommendations for the same to the President. A Sanad (certificate) signed by the President and a medallion in the shape of a peepal leaf are the only two things being given to the recipients; no money is granted with the award.
In the Indian order of precedence, the Bharat Ratna award is seventh. But Bharat Ratna recipients are constitutionally prohibited from using the award name as the title per Article 18 of the Constitution of India.
Since 1954, 44 distinguished individuals have been awarded this prestigious and highest civilian award.
