Former Bihar Chief Minister Karpoori Thakur was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor.
Who was Karpoori Thakur?
Born in a poor barber family in Bihar, Thakur rose from humble beginnings to become a towering figure in Indian politics. He championed the cause of the backward classes, farmers, and the underprivileged throughout his career. As Chief Minister of Bihar (1970-71, 1977-79), he implemented groundbreaking initiatives for land reforms, education, and poverty alleviation. He is famously remembered for abolishing the zamindari system, introducing free education for girls, and promoting social equality through affirmative action policies.
Why was he awarded the Bharat Ratna?
He was a symbol of hope and inspiration for millions of disadvantaged people across India. His unwavering commitment to social justice, his relentless fight against oppression, and his genuine empathy for the suffering masses earned him the affectionate title of “Jan Nayak”, or “People’s Leader.”
Q: Karpoori Thakur belonged to which state in India?
(a) Punjab
(b) Uttar Pradesh
(c) Madhya Pradesh
(d) Bihar
Ans : (d) Bihar
Q: What was a major initiative implemented by Karpoori Thakur during his Chief Ministership?
(a) Nationalization of banks
(b) Green Revolution
(c) Abolition of the zamindari system
(d) Introduction of Panchayati Raj
Ans : (c) Abolition of the zamindari system
