Biju Patnaik
Biju Patnaik, also known as Biju Babu, was an Indian politician, aviator, and entrepreneur who served as the Chief Minister of the Indian state of Odisha twice, from 1961 to 1963 and from 1990 to 1995. He was a prominent figure in Indian politics and is remembered for his contributions to the development of Odisha and his role in India’s struggle for independence.
Early Life and Career
Biju Patnaik was born on 5th March 1916 in Cuttack, Odisha, to a family of landowners. He completed his education in India and then went on to study in the United States. He obtained a degree in aeronautical engineering from the University of California, Berkeley, and became a pilot. During World War II, he flew for the Royal Indian Air Force and later for the Indian National Army. He also played a key role in the Indonesian struggle for independence, providing arms and ammunition to the Indonesian rebels.
Political Career
After India gained independence, Biju Patnaik entered politics and joined the Indian National Congress. He was elected to the Odisha Legislative Assembly in 1952 and became a member of the Union Parliament in 1957. He served as the Minister for Steel and Mines in the Jawaharlal Nehru government.
In 1961, Biju Patnaik was elected as the Chief Minister of Odisha for the first time. During his tenure, he implemented various development programs, such as the establishment of the State Planning Board, the creation of a rural electrification program, and the construction of the Hirakud Dam. However, he was forced to resign in 1963 due to a political crisis.
Biju Patnaik rejoined the Congress Party in 1971 and was appointed as the Minister for Mines, Steel and Heavy Industries in the Indira Gandhi government. He resigned from the Congress Party in 1975 in protest against the imposition of Emergency and joined the Janata Party. He was elected to the Lok Sabha from the Kendrapara constituency in Odisha.
In 1990, Biju Patnaik was again elected as the Chief Minister of Odisha. During his second term, he focused on infrastructure development, such as the construction of roads, bridges, and airports. He also launched various welfare schemes, such as the Biju Patnaik Rural Housing Scheme and the Biju Krushak Kalyan Yojana, to improve the living conditions of the rural population.
International Diplomat
Beyond the borders of India, Biju Patnaik’s influence extended to the international stage. He played a pivotal role in fostering diplomatic ties with Indonesia during a critical juncture, earning him the prestigious ‘Bhoomi Putra’ (Son of the Soil) title in Indonesia. His global outlook and diplomatic acumen showcased Odisha on the world map.
Legacy
Biju Patnaik was a charismatic leader who was popular among the masses. He was known for his honesty, integrity, and his commitment to the development of Odisha. He was a pioneer in the aviation industry and played a key role in India’s struggle for independence. His contribution to the development of Odisha is still remembered today, and various development programs and schemes have been named after him.
Biju Patnaik was a visionary leader who devoted his life to the service of the people. He was a multi-faceted personality who excelled in various fields, such as aviation, entrepreneurship, and politics. He left behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations, and his contributions to the development of Odisha will always be remembered
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