New Delhi, November 2026 : The Congress on Saturday paid tribute to India's first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, on his birth anniversary, remembering his contributions to nation-building, democracy, scientific development and the establishment of modern India. Party leaders described Nehru as the 'Jewel of India' and said his vision of a democratic, inclusive and progressive nation continued to inspire generations.
November 14 is observed as Children's Day in India in recognition of Nehru's affection for children and his emphasis on their education, development and future.
Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, paid homage to Nehru through a message on social media platform X. He recalled the freedom struggle and said Independence was not the final destination but the beginning of a new journey for the country.
"With humble reverence on the birth anniversary of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, the Jewel of India and India's first Prime Minister. Freedom was not their destination, but a milestone in the nation's new journey. Swaraj was not about power, but about every citizen's participation and responsibility for the country's future," Rahul Gandhi wrote.
He further highlighted Nehru's vision of India as a nation founded on diversity, democracy and equality.
"India was a quest, an idea for them -- diversity as its strength, democracy as its faith, and equality as its foundation. Their dream of a modern, scientific, progressive, and confident India remains our inspiration today. And our efforts to build that India are the true tribute to them," he added.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also paid tribute to the country's first Prime Minister, recalling his role in laying the foundations of a modern, democratic and progressive nation following Independence.
In his message on X, Kharge said India faced numerous challenges after gaining freedom, but Nehru's vision, leadership and determination helped provide direction to the country's social, political and economic development.
He said Nehru had strong faith in democracy, equality, secularism and scientific thinking. His vision was of an India where every citizen enjoyed equal opportunities without discrimination.
Kharge also highlighted Nehru's affection for children and his commitment to their education and future. He said the emphasis on nurturing younger generations served as a reminder that the country's future depended on the opportunities provided to children.
Extending Children's Day greetings, the Congress president called for renewed efforts to ensure that every child had access to quality education, equal opportunities and the freedom to pursue their aspirations. He added that Nehru's ideas and ideals continued to guide the nation.
Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also remembered Nehru, describing him as a revolutionary, visionary and nation-builder.
In her tribute, she said Nehru's commitment to India remained relevant even decades after his death. She also referred to the criticism directed at him by those whom she accused of seeking to undermine the Constitution and democracy.
"Jawaharlal Nehru was that unique human being -- a revolutionary, a visionary and a builder. The fact that he is still attacked by those who seek to destroy our Constitution and our democracy more than sixty years after his death is a testament to his steadfast commitment to India. May his love for our country guide us for always," Priyanka Gandhi said.
The Congress leaders' tributes on Nehru's birth anniversary focused on his contributions to India's democratic institutions, secular values, scientific outlook and nation-building, while reiterating the importance of education and equal opportunities for children on Children's Day.
