Pranab Kumar Mukherjee (1 February 1935 – 31 August 2020) was an Indian politician who served as the 13th President of India from 2012 until 2017. A veteran statesman and a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress, he held various ministerial portfolios in the Government of India throughout his five decades of political career.
Born in Mirati, a village in the Bengal Presidency of British India (present-day West Bengal), Mukherjee's early involvement in politics began during his student years. After earning a Master's degree in History and Political Science, as well as a law degree from the University of Calcutta, he embarked on his political journey. His career commenced in 1969 as a member of the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of the Indian Parliament.
Mukherjee held several key ministerial portfolios, including Finance, Defence, External Affairs, and Commerce. He was known for his deep understanding of economic and political issues, and his contributions to policy formulation were significant. As Finance Minister, he presented several budgets and navigated the Indian economy through challenging times. His tenure as External Affairs Minister saw him play a crucial role in shaping India's foreign policy.
In 2012, Pranab Mukherjee was elected as the President of India. During his five-year term, he upheld the constitutional values and diligently fulfilled his duties as the head of state. He earned respect across the political spectrum for his non-partisan approach and commitment to democratic principles.
After his term as President ended in 2017, Mukherjee retired from active politics. He passed away on 31 August 2020, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated public service. He was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour, in 2019.
Mukherjee authored several books, including his memoirs, "The Dramatic Decade: The Indira Gandhi Years" and "The Coalition Years: 1996-2012," which offer valuable insights into Indian politics. His legacy as a seasoned politician, astute administrator, and respected statesman continues to inspire.
Due to his passing, Pranab Mukherjee no longer maintains an active presence on social media platforms. Information regarding his life and career can be found through reputable news archives, official government websites, and biographical resources.
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