Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, Mysuru MP, and others making floral offerings to Vajpayee’s portrait on his 101st birth anniversary, in Mysuru on December 25.
| Photo Credit: M.A. SRIRAM
Tributes were paid to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his 101st birthday here on December 25, with speakers recalling his role in shaping key national programmes, some of which continue to be implemented even in present times.
Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, Mysuru MP, and others made floral offerings to Vajpayee’s portrait and highlighted his contributions to the country.
Mr. Wadiyar said many initiatives launched by Vajpayee, including the National Highways Development project and Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, are still being implemented across the country and have helped shore up development. These initiatives were aimed at improving infrastructure and governance as well, he added.
The MP recalled that Vajpayee took the bold decision of conducting nuclear tests despite tremendous pressure from various countries, and said the tests helped pave way for India to emerge as a nuclear power.
Vajpayee’s term in office was marked by an atmosphere of cooperation, with many Acts and Bills receiving support even from his political opponents, said Mr. Wadiyar.
“That was the kind of political culture that prevailed then, and it is something we should draw inspiration from,’’ he added.
Referring to the national vision of Viksit Bharat, the MP said Vajpayee had laid the foundation for long-term development thinking and institutional reforms. He added that the country remains indebted to the former Prime Minister and should seek to emulate his approach to governance and public life.
Other party speakers described Vajpayee as an “Ajatashatru”, a leader without enemies, highlighting his inclusive politics and statesmanship.
As part of the week-long tribute programme in Mysuru, a series of public activities including sports meets, cleanliness drives and health camps are being organised to mark Vajpayee’s contribution to the nation.
L. Nagendra, former MLA and city unit president, and Pratap Simha, former MP, were among those present.
Published – December 25, 2025 07:12 pm IST
