Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Committee Observes Former Prime Minister’s Birth Anniversary in Pune

Pune, August 20: India needs the progressive, inclusive and forward-looking vision of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi even today, said B. Sandeep, Secretary of the All India Congress Committee and Maharashtra co-in-charge.

The Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Committee commemorated the birth anniversary of the former Prime Minister by paying floral tribute to his statue located opposite the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park in Katraj, Pune.

Speaking at the programme, Sandeep said that the Congress had made immense sacrifices for the nation both before and after Independence. He noted that while Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru laid the foundation for India’s development, Rajiv Gandhi took the country forward by laying the groundwork for a modern, technology-driven India.

“Rajiv Gandhi envisioned a progressive and modern India. His ideas continue to remain relevant, particularly for the younger generation. We must collectively work towards fulfilling his vision for the country,” Sandeep said.

He further highlighted Rajiv Gandhi’s role in laying the foundation of India’s computer and technology revolution. According to Sandeep, these initiatives played a significant role in creating new opportunities and employment for the country’s youth.

“The contribution Rajiv Gandhi made to the nation, as well as his sacrifice, must be communicated to today’s young generation. His vision for technology, education and development continues to have a lasting impact on India,” he said.

AICC Secretary Rehana Chisti said Rajiv Gandhi’s positive approach to politics and governance helped create an environment for India’s technological transformation. She stressed the importance of taking his ideas to young people and encouraging greater youth participation in politics.

“Rajiv Gandhi’s vision continues to provide direction to the country. His ideas should reach today’s youth, and more young people should be encouraged to enter public life and politics,” Chisti said.

The programme was presided over by Deepti Choudhary, President of the Pune City Congress West Division. Choudhary praised Gopal Tiwari for taking the initiative to install Rajiv Gandhi’s statue and said that greater efforts were needed to introduce his vision and contribution to the younger generation.

“Rajiv Gandhi was a Prime Minister with a distinct vision for India. Despite serving for a relatively short period, he initiated several important reforms that helped accelerate the country’s technological transformation, particularly in the fields of computers and telecommunications,” Choudhary said.

She also called for a more positive political discourse and said that Rajiv Gandhi’s inclusive and progressive approach could provide an alternative to the prevailing atmosphere of political negativity.

Gopal Tiwari, President of the Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Committee and Congress state spokesperson, delivered the welcome address and introductory remarks.

Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Vice President Aba Dalvi, General Secretary Rajendra Shelar, and committee members Bhola Wanjale and Sanjay Wawale also addressed the gathering.

Garden Superintendent Rajkumar Jadhav, office-bearers and members of the Rajiv Gandhi Memorial Committee, senior Congress leaders and party workers were present on the occasion. Among those present were Suryakant Marane, Bhau Shedge, Nandkumar Papal, labour leader Rajendra Kharade, Sanjay Abhang, Vivek Bhargude, Subhash Jedhe, Laxman Tarwade, Anna Gosavi, Kishor Marane, Bhagwan Kadu, Dhananjay Bhilare, Adv. Shrikant Patil, Mahesh Ambike, Ganesh More, Ganesh Shinde, Adv. Swapnil Jagtap, Vikas Dave, Narsinh Amboli, Rajendra Magar, Adv. Faiyaz Sheikh, Haridas Adsul, Avinash Adsul, Rajendra Sutar, Balasaheb Pawar, Uday Lele, Ganesh Gugale and others.

Subhash Thorve proposed the vote of thanks. The programme concluded with the national anthem.