Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday paid tribute to India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, on his 137th birth anniversary, which is observed across the country as Children's Day.
Modi remembered the former Prime Minister in a post on X, writing, "Paying tribute to former PM Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on his birth anniversary."
Rajnath Singh also offered his tributes, recalling Nehru's contribution to India's freedom struggle and his leadership during the early years of independent India.
"On the birth anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Ji, I pay my tributes to him. His contribution to India's freedom struggle and his leadership as the first Prime Minister of independent India left an enduring imprint on the formative years of our nation," Singh said in his post on X.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also paid tribute to Nehru, describing him as the "Jewel of India". Congress leaders visited Shantivan, Nehru's memorial in New Delhi, to offer floral tributes on the occasion.
November 14 is celebrated as National Children's Day in India to commemorate Nehru's birth anniversary. Popularly known as 'Chacha Nehru' because of his affection for children, he is remembered for his belief in the importance of children's education, welfare and development.
Why India celebrates Children's Day on November 14
Nehru was born on November 14, 1889, in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. He became independent India's first Prime Minister on August 15, 1947, following his active participation in the country's freedom movement. He remained in office until his death on May 27, 1964.
Following his death, a resolution was unanimously passed in Parliament to commemorate his birth anniversary as National Children's Day, also known as Bal Diwas, in recognition of his affection for children and his emphasis on their development.
Before 1956, India observed Children's Day on November 20, coinciding with Universal Children's Day. The United Nations had declared November 20 as Universal Children's Day in 1954. However, following Nehru's death in 1964, India adopted November 14 as its National Children's Day.
How Children's Day is celebrated across India
Schools and educational institutions across the country organise special programmes to mark the occasion. These include cultural performances, games, competitions and other activities aimed at celebrating childhood and highlighting the importance of children's development.
Government institutions and organisations also hold commemorative events and pay tribute to Nehru.
The occasion serves as a reminder of the importance of children's education, healthcare, welfare and rights, while recognising their role in shaping the country's future.