Bharat Ratna for ex-Indian PMs Chaudhary Charan Singh, Narasimha Rao, scientist MS Swaminathan

Former Indian prime ministers PV Narasimha Rao and Chaudhary Charan Singh, as well asMS Swaminathan, the architect of the 'Green Revolution' in the country's agriculture, will receive its top civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (Feb 9) made the announcement in a post on X.

PV Narasimha Rao, a leader of the Congress party, was the ninth prime minister from 1991 to 1996.

"As a distinguished scholar and statesman, Narasimha Rao Garu served India extensively in various capacities," Modi said on X, adding his tenure as PM was marked by significant measures that opened India to global markets, fostering a new era of economic development.

"Furthermore, his contributions to India's foreign policy, language and education sectors underscore his multifaceted legacy as a leader who not only steered India through critical transformations but also enriched its cultural and intellectual heritage," Modi added.

Chaudhary Charan Singh, popularly referred to as the champion of India's peasants, was the country's fifth prime minister from 1979-1980.

Modi said that Singh dedicated his life to the rights and welfare of farmers. Reacting to the news, Singh's grandson and Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) chiefJayant Chaudhary said, "It is a big day & an emotional moment for me. I want to thank the President, government & PM Modi because this was part of his vision...Three awards have been given. The sentiments of the people are connected with this decision..."

Talking about Dr MS Swaminathan, Modi said that he was being conferred the Bharat Ratna for "his monumental contributions to our nation in agriculture and farmers’ welfare."

Modi said that Dr Swaminathan played a pivotal role in helping India achieve self-reliance in agriculture during challenging times and made outstanding efforts towards modernizing Indian agriculture.

"We also recognise his invaluable work as an innovator and mentor and encouraging learning and research among several students. Dr Swaminathan’s visionary leadership has not only transformed Indian agriculture but also ensured the nation’s food security and prosperity," the prime minister added.