Bharat Ratna for Vajpayee, Malaviya

Odisha Channel Bureau New Delhi, Dec 24: President of India Pranab Mukherjee has been pleased to award Bharat Ratna to Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya (posthumously) and to Atal Bihari Vajpayee.The President’s office made the announcement on the eve of Vajpayee’s 90th birthday and the 153rd birth anniversary of Pandit Malaviya.PM expresses delightPrime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed delight at the Bharat Ratna being conferred on Pandit Malaviya and Vajpayee.”Bharat Ratna being conferred on Pt.Madan Mohan Malaviya and Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee is a matter of great delight.Country`s highest honour to these illustrious stalwarts is a fitting recognition of their service to the Nation,” Modi said.“Pt.Madan Mohan Malaviya is remembered as a phenomenal scholar and freedom fighter who lit the spark of national consciousness among people.Atal ji means so much to everyone.A guide, inspiration and giant among giants, his contribution to India is invaluable,” the Prime Minister said.Leaders cutting across party lines have expressed delight over the announcement about the decision to confer the country’s highest civilian honour on Malaviya, who founded of Banaras Hindu University, and Vajpayee, the former Prime Minister who is loved by people across the country.