QUES . Write a critical note on the evolution and significance of the slogan of ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan’. UPSC 2013 G S MAINS PAPER 1

HINTS:

The slogan ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan’ was given by the Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri in the mid- 1960s. At that time, India was facing military aggression by Pakistan and a hostile China. At the same time, there was a huge scarcity of foodgrains and India was heavily reliant on food imports . The slogan brought into focus the two pressing urgencies that the nation faced.

The slogan was meant to rally the nation to support the soldiers and the farmers and to give confidence to them in facing this adversity. It underscored the idea that while soldiers protected the nation from external threats, and farmers ensured that the country remained self-reliant in its food needs. The slogan identifies with national defence and agriculture, as the top priorities for the nation.

The slogan proved successful, and the countries armed forces repelled Pakistani aggression. It did wonders to raise the spirit of the soldiers fighting at the borders.

Post the 1965 war, there was a marked shift in India’s agricultural policy. This period witnessed the onset of the Green Revolution, an agricultural reform movement aimed at enhancing crop yields and achieving food self-sufficiency. The “Jai Kisan” aspect of the slogan served as a motivational factor, emphasizing the nation’s faith in and support for its agrarian community.

Hence, the slogan fitted exceedingly well to the situation India was placed at that point of time. It also infused confidence in the farmers and the general population.

The slogan still remains relevant. Achieving high agricultural growth is key to the attainment of high growth rates and enhanced living standards of the rural population. Similarly, with geopolitical tensions prevalent in South Asia, the role of the armed forces remains crucial.

“Jai Jawan Jai Kisan” is not just a slogan but a philosophy that encapsulates India’s respect, reliance, and gratitude towards its soldiers and farmers. The slogan itself has evolved over the years. Former Prime Minister Vajpayee added “Jai Vigyan” (Hail Science) in 1998, to the slogan to underline the importance of science and technology in taking the country forward.

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External link: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/this-quote-means-jai-jawan-jai-kisan-shastri-9193486/