"Whenever you take a step forward, you are bound to disturb something." - Indira Gandhi
In 1966, Indira Gandhi made history as the first and only female prime minister of India and the world's second-ever female prime minister. She made many controversial political moves during her time in power but will always be remembered as one of the most powerful women in the world.
Indira was born into British-ruled India. She grew up watching her father fight for Indian independence and then become the first prime minister of the new Republic of India. Gandhi was naturally drawn into politics through her father's involvement, so it was no surprise when she began to participate in political movements herself.
Gandhi was initially elected as prime minister because other members of her party saw her as weak and malleable as a woman and hoped to use her as their political puppet. Despite her reluctance to take on such a large political role, she was an iron-willed and determined leader, quickly proving her party wrong and becoming a dominant political figure in her own right.
One of Gandhi's greatest accomplishments during her early years as prime minister was the Green Revolution. This series of programs was introduced to help India become agriculturally self-sufficient. Gandhi wanted to ensure India's strength and stability and didn't want to rely on aid from other countries. She strongly encouraged Indian scientists and farmers to collaborate with other countries, an endeavor that led to the development and success of new grain varieties. That, combined with increased government and financial support for agriculture, helped India go from a country often reliant on food aid to a major agricultural exporter.
Another big political move came when Gandhi supported the Bengali movement to separate East and West Pakistan in the Indo-Pakistani War. India had been supporting East Pakistan in their liberation attempt for months with resources and training, but Gandhi was trying to avoid entering the war. Unfortunately, an attack on an Indian airbase changed things, and India officially declared war on Pakistan in December of 1971. The Indian army was so swift, smart, and powerful that West Pakistani forces surrendered just 13 days later. This victory led to the formation of Bangladesh from East Pakistan and showcased India's power.
Later in her political career, Gandhi made more controversial decisions, one of which led to her assassination. Operation Blue Star was a military action she ordered that involved storming a prominent temple to remove armed separatists. This action led to extensive damage to the temple, a holy site. The Sikh community was greatly offended by these events and the lack of respect for their holy site. A few days later, Gandhi was assassinated by her Sikh bodyguards in retaliation for her acts.
In 1985, India issued a commemorative coin honoring Indira Gandhi following her assassination. The obverse features the Ashoka Lion Pillar, the National Emblem of India. This statue symbolizes power, courage, and national pride. The four lions face in cardinal directions, representing protection. The reverse of this coin features a proud portrait of Gandhi. Below her are the symbolic dates 1917-1984, the dates of her birth and death. She may have been a controversial leader at times, but this commemorative coin highlights the respect the people of India had for their former prime minister.