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India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, is a name every Indian grows up hearing.
Loved by many, debated by others, he led the country for 17 crucial years after independence.
While no leader gets everything right, Nehru made some truly remarkable choices that laid the firm foundations for the India we live in today.
Here are five things he got absolutely right, explained simply, with the significant impact they still have today.
1. Fighting For Freedom And Keeping India United
Nehru threw himself into the freedom struggle early on.
He worked hand in hand with Mahatma Gandhi, spent years in jail, and pushed hard for complete independence even as others hesitated.
His famous “Tryst with Destiny” speech on 15 August 1947 still gives goosebumps; it captured the hope of a brand-new nation.
After Partition brought heartbreak and violence, Nehru worked tirelessly to calm tensions and welcome millions of refugees.
He ensured India remained one country despite every challenge.
That unity is something we enjoy today because of his steady leadership.
2. Laying The Foundation For Industry And Infrastructure
Nehru dreamed of a self-reliant India that could make its own steel, machines, and power.
He called big dams “the temples of modern India”, and he was not wrong.
Projects like Bhakra Nangal, Hirakud, and Damodar Valley brought electricity to villages, water for farming, and flood control.
Steel plants in Bhilai, Rourkela, and Durgapur gave India heavy industry muscle.
His mixed economy model and Five-Year Plans set the stage for growth.
Many of today’s factories and power plants trace their roots back to those early decisions.
3. Building World-Class Education And Science Institutions
Nehru knew knowledge was power.
He wanted Indian minds to lead the World, so he set up institutions that still make us proud:
- The first IIT at Kharagpur (1951), followed by others
- AIIMS in Delhi for top-class medical care and training
- Early IIMs for modern management skills
- Atomic Energy Commission and space research beginnings
He encouraged curiosity and rational thinking in everyone.
His deep love for children earned him the nickname “Chacha Nehru”, and that is why we celebrate Children’s Day on his birthday, 14 November.
These institutions continue to produce engineers, doctors, scientists, and leaders who shine globally.
4. Creating A Strong, Secular Democracy
Nehru helped shape India’s Constitution, which gave every adult the right to vote, something rare for a poor, new nation in 1950.
He stood firm on secularism: no favouritism for any religion in government.
His “unity in diversity” was not just a slogan; he protected minorities and built a country where different faiths could live together.
Regular elections, free speech, and an independent judiciary, all these democratic strengths started under his watch.
5. Giving India An Independent Voice In The World
During the Cold War, Nehru refused to join either superpower bloc fully.
He co-founded the Non-Aligned Movement, letting India (and many other countries) choose their own path.
His Panchsheel principles promoted peaceful coexistence.
India earned respect as a nation that spoke up for justice, from supporting African freedom struggles to pushing for nuclear disarmament.
Quick Trivia
Nehru always wore a fresh red rose in his coat pocket, a symbol of his love for beauty and socialism. Even world leaders noticed it!
Final Thoughts
Jawaharlal Nehru’s vision was big: a modern, united, educated, and proud India.
Many of his decisions, from dams to democracy, continue to benefit us decades later.
At THOUSIF Inc. – INDIA, we enjoy sharing stories about the people who shaped our nation.
Which of Nehru’s achievements inspires you the most?
Drop your thoughts below, and do not forget to explore our other history pieces!
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