NEW DELHI, Mar 28: The central government on Friday declared Dr Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar’s birth anniversary, on April 14, as a public holiday for his contributions to society and the Constitution.
Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who made the announcement on social media platform X, stated, “The architect of the Constitution, the one who established a new era of equality in society, our revered Baba Saheb, Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Ji, will now have a public holiday on his birth anniversary.”
“By taking this decision, the devoted follower of Baba Saheb, the honourable Prime Minister Shri @narendramodiJi, has honoured the sentiments of the nation,” Shekhawat added.
A government order, issued by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions, also confirmed that “central government offices, including industrial establishments throughout India,” will be closed on April 14, 2025, in observance of Ambedkar’s birth anniversary. “All Ministries/Departments of Government of India may bring the above decision to the notice of all concerned,” the order stated.
Dr Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, widely known as Babasaheb Ambedkar, was born on April 14, 1891, in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh. He is regarded as the framer of the Indian constitution and had played a key role in shaping modern India and is recognised as a leading figure in Dalit activism.
Ambedkar was a strong advocate for social justice and equality, fighting for the rights of the marginalised and oppressed. He is remembered for his significant contributions to India’s development.
As an economist, educationist, and the chief architect of the Indian Constitution, Ambedkar made a lasting impact on the country. He was the first person from a backward caste to become a lawyer and later became India’s first Law and Justice Minister.
Ambedkar was also the first Indian to earn a doctorate and was fluent in nine languages. After his death on December 6, 1956, he was posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honour.
(Manas Dasgupta)
