Write a note on the evolution and significance of the slogan of 'Jai Jawan Jai Kisan'. (200 words, 10M)
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. 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.
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. Hence, the slogan fitted exceedingly well to the situation and India was placed at that point of time.
It did wonders to raise the spirit of the soldiers fighting at the borders. 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.
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.