Posted 1/23/2024, 3:33:54 PM
Bharat Ratna for Karpoori Thakur, Proponent of Pioneering Quota Policies in Bihar
- Bharat Ratna awarded posthumously to Karpoori Thakur, former Bihar CM and socialist icon, on his 100th birth anniversary
- Implemented pioneering 26% reservation system in Bihar in 1978, including quotas for OBCs, EBCs, women, and upper caste poor
- Credited with pro-people schemes like waiving school fees, promoting Hindi and Urdu languages
- Remained committed to socialist ideals and opposed to dynastic politics throughout his career
- Enduring popularity due to inclusive politics and reservation policies, though later criticized for EBC quota