Amit Shah Remembers Former President Pranab Mukherjee on His Death Anniversary

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday paid tribute to former President and Bharat Ratna awardee Pranab Mukherjee on his death anniversary, remembering the veteran statesman for his decades of service to the nation and commitment to constitutional values. In a post on X, Shah described Mukherjee as an accomplished administrator and scholar who remained dedicated to the country throughout his long public career. He said Mukherjee’s legacy continues to inspire those entering public life.

“Remembering former President and Bharat Ratna Dr Pranab Mukherjee Ji on his Punyatithi,” Shah said, highlighting his contribution to the nation and the Constitution. West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari also paid tribute to the former President, describing him as a towering statesman, scholar and distinguished parliamentarian. Adhikari said Mukherjee devoted more than five decades to serving the country and made important contributions while handling several key Union ministries.

Pranab Mukherjee served as the 13th President of India from July 25, 2012, to July 25, 2017. Before becoming President, he held important portfolios including Finance, Defence, External Affairs and Commerce. Mukherjee entered Parliament in 1969 after being elected to the Rajya Sabha. He later served as a Lok Sabha member and represented Jangipur in West Bengal. During his political career, he became known for his deep understanding of parliamentary affairs and his ability to build consensus on major national issues. Between 2004 and 2012, Mukherjee chaired more than 95 Groups of Ministers that considered a wide range of issues, including administrative reforms, employment, food security, energy security, information technology, telecommunications, UIDAI and metro rail development.

His contribution also extended to institution-building. He was associated with the establishment of Regional Rural Banks in 1975 and played a role in the development of institutions including EXIM Bank of India and the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had also remembered Mukherjee, praising his contribution to Parliament and public life. Singh said the former President had a notable ability to bring together differing viewpoints and build consensus on matters of national importance.

Born on December 11, 1935, in Mirati village of West Bengal’s Birbhum district, Mukherjee began his professional career as a teacher and journalist before entering politics. He was awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 2008 and later received the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour. Pranab Mukherjee passed away on August 31, 2020, at the age of 84. His long political career and contributions to Indian governance and constitutional institutions continue to be remembered by leaders across the political spectrum.