On his 34th death anniversary, a look at Rajiv Gandhi’s rise, legacy in frames

Updated On: 21 May, 2025 02:52 PM IST | Anushree Gaikwad

Rajiv Gandhi, who served as India`s Prime Minister from 1984 to 1989, was hailed as a visionary leader. He ignited hope in the hearts of millions and his bold reforms and forward-looking leadership helped lay the foundation for a modern, future-ready India. Here’s a glimpse into his inspiring journey. (Pics/ @INCIndia)

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<p>Rajiv`s mother, Indira Gandhi, held the highest office as the Prime Minister of India from January 1966 to March 1977. His grandfather, Jawaharlal Nehru, was 58 when he embarked on a 17-year tenure as free India’s first Prime Minister</p>

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Rajiv`s mother, Indira Gandhi, held the highest office as the Prime Minister of India from January 1966 to March 1977. His grandfather, Jawaharlal Nehru, was 58 when he embarked on a 17-year tenure as free India’s first Prime Minister

<p>Beyond representing a generational shift in the country, Mr. Gandhi secured the largest electoral mandate in India’s history in 1984 when the Congress won more than 400 seats</p>

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Beyond representing a generational shift in the country, Mr. Gandhi secured the largest electoral mandate in India’s history in 1984 when the Congress won more than 400 seats

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Rajiv`s vision helped lay the foundation for India`s IT boom in the 1990s and beyond

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His government`s Computer and IT Policy reduced import duties on computers and software to promote IT growth

<p>Rajiv`s government`s policies helped the foundation of the National Association of Software and Service Companies in 1988, boosting India`s software industry. His government also encouraged computer education in schools and universities</p>

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Rajiv`s government`s policies helped the foundation of the National Association of Software and Service Companies in 1988, boosting India`s software industry. His government also encouraged computer education in schools and universities

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Characterised as modern-minded, decisive, yet undemonstrative, Gandhi was well-versed in the realm of advanced technology

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The Congress party suffered defeat in the 1989 elections, resulting in Gandhi assuming the role of leader of the opposition

<p>Following the collapse of the National Front in early 1991, elections were scheduled for May 1991. Tragically, he lost his life in a bomb blast on May 21, 1991, at Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu</p>

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Following the collapse of the National Front in early 1991, elections were scheduled for May 1991. Tragically, he lost his life in a bomb blast on May 21, 1991, at Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu

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On his 34th death anniversary, a look at Rajiv Gandhi’s rise, legacy in frames

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Photo of Day

Breaking barriers and building pyramids — Women power in action!