Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, played a pivotal role in shaping the nation in its early years of independence. His tenure began on a historic date, August 15, 1947, which marked India's liberation from British colonial rule. As the country's inaugural Prime Minister, Nehru was instrumental in laying the foundations of India's democratic and secular governance. His leadership was marked by a deep commitment to principles such as secularism, democracy, and social justice.
Nehru's prime ministership extended until his passing on May 27, 1964, a period of over 16 years. During this time, he faced various challenges, including the partition of India and the complex task of nation-building. He played a key role in the formulation of India's foreign policy and was known for his advocacy of non-alignment, positioning India as a neutral player in the Cold War era. Nehru's vision for India's development was marked by a focus on scientific and industrial progress, which led to the establishment of institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). His legacy as the first Prime Minister of India endures, as he is remembered for his significant contributions to the nation's political, social, and economic development.