Important Facts For Prelims
Dr. Rajendra Prasad
- 04 Dec 2023
- 2 min read
Why in News?
Recently, the President of India has paid tributes to Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India on his birth anniversary.
Who Was Dr. Rajendra Prasad?
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad was born in Zeradei, Siwan, Bihar on 3rd December 1884.
- He was associated with Mahatma Gandhi during the Champaran Satyagraha (1917) in Bihar.
- Dr. Prasad reacted strongly to the Rowlatt Act of 1918 and the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919.
- He called for non-cooperation in Bihar as part of Gandhi's non-cooperation movement.
- Played a significant role in the Salt Satyagraha in Bihar in 1930, leading to his imprisonment.
- He officially joined the Indian National Congress in 1911, during its annual session held in Calcutta.
- Joined the Interim Government in 1946 as the Minister of Food and Agriculture. and gave the slogan of “Grow More Food”.
- He served as the first President of India from January 26, 1950, when the country adopted its constitution, until May 13, 1962, holding the record for the longest-serving President.
- On January 26, 1950, he was elected India's First President. His tenure as the President for over 12 years makes him the longest-serving President in the history of India.
- Dr. Prasad was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1962. He authored several books, including "Satyagraha at Champaran," "India Divided," and his autobiography "Atmakatha."
- Passed away on February 28, 1963.
UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ)
Q. Consider the following statements: (2010)
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad persuaded Mahatma Gandhi to come to Champaran to investigate the problem of peasants.
- Acharya J.B. Kriplani was one of Mahatma Gandhi’s colleagues in his Champaran investigation.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (b)
