Today, April 11, is a very special day for all of us. It is the birth anniversary of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, one of India’s greatest social reformers and a mentor for generations. This year, the occasion is even more significant, as it marks the beginning of his 200th birth anniversary celebrations. Mahatma Phule was a great reformer. Furthermore, his life was one of moral courage, restless inquiry and unwavering commitment to social good. Mahatma Phule is remembered for the institutions he created and the movements he led. At the same time, his contribution to our civilizational journey lies in the hope he inspired, the confidence he instilled and the ideas that continue to give strength to millions of people across the country. Born in 1827 in the great state of Maharashtra, Mahatma Phule rose from humble beginnings. But his early difficulties never came in the way of his education, his courage or his commitment to society. This is a trait that has always stayed with him: no matter what the challenges are, one must work hard, gain knowledge and mitigate those challenges rather than doing nothing about it. Right from his school days, young Jyotirao had a highly inquisitive nature and became an avid reader, often reading far more books than was expected of children of his age. Years later, he said, “The more questions we pose, the more knowledge comes out of them.” Obviously, the spirit of exploration that he had since childhood remained constant in his journey. Throughout his life, learning and education became central to Mahatma Phule’s mission. He recognized with rare clarity that knowledge is not a privilege to be protected, but the power to share. At a time when many were deprived of the joy of learning, she opened pioneering schools for girls and those deprived of formal education. He used to say, “Whatever improvement comes in children through the mother is very valuable.” Therefore, if schools are to be opened, they should first be opened for girls.” She worked to create a new social imagination in which the classroom became an instrument of justice and equality. His approach towards education inspires us a lot. Over the last decade, we have worked to make research and innovation the cornerstone of India’s youth. Efforts are being made to create an ecosystem where young minds are encouraged to question, explore and innovate. By investing in knowledge, skills and opportunity, India is empowering its youth to become problem-solvers and drivers of national progress. Due to his knowledge and intelligence, Mahatma Phule developed a strong understanding of areas such as agriculture, health care and rural development. He often used to say that injustice towards our farmers and workers weakens our society. He saw how social inequalities manifested in daily life, whether in the fields or villages. Therefore, he threw himself into ensuring dignity for the poor, the downtrodden and the marginalized. At the same time, he made every possible effort to maintain social harmony. Mahatma Phule said, “True freedom cannot be achieved unless equal rights are given to everyone in the society.” And to do this, they created institutions that implemented this vision and contributed to a just society. The Satyashodhak Samaj founded by him was one of the most important social reform movements in modern India. It was at the forefront of social reform, community service and advancing human dignity. It became an effective voice for women, youth and people living in villages. This movement reflects Mahatma Phule’s inner belief that society can be strengthened by keeping justice, respect for every individual and the spirit of collective progress at its core. His personal life also teaches courage. Always working and being among people took a toll on his health. But even the most serious health challenges did not diminish his resolve. After suffering a debilitating stroke, he continued to work and fulfill his dream. Yes, his body was tested, but his commitment to society was not successful. For millions of people today, especially those who gain courage from struggle, it is one of the most powerful aspects of their lives. No memory of Mahatma Phule can be complete without a respectful mention of Savitribai Phule, who was herself one of the greatest reformers of our country. As one of India’s pioneering women teachers, she played a pivotal role in advancing girls’ education, giving them the opportunity to pursue their dreams. After the demise of Mahatma Phule, Savitribai carried that torch forward and in 1897, during the plague outbreak, she served the victims with such devotion that she herself contracted the disease and lost her life. Our land has been blessed time and again by great men and women who have strengthened society through thought, sacrifice and work. He did not wait for change to come from somewhere else. They became its source. For hundreds of years in our land, calls for social betterment have often arisen from within society itself, from those who could see suffering clearly and refused to accept it as fate. Mahatma Jyotirao Phule was one such voice. I remember my visit to Pune in 2022, when I paid homage to Mahatma Phule at the grand statue of him in the city. As we mark the beginning of his bicentenary year, the most fitting tribute to Mahatma Jyotirao Phule is about renewal. Renewing our commitment to issues close to their hearts like education. Renewing our sensitivity to injustice. Renewing our belief that society can reform itself from within. His life tells us that the power of community when combined with moral clarity and public purpose can do wonders in India. This is the reason why he gives strength to millions of people even today. This is why his words and actions inspire hope even today. And that is why, almost two hundred years after his birth, Mahatma Jyotirao Phule remains not a figure of the past, but a guide for India’s future. (The author is the Prime Minister of India)