New Delhi, Dec 11 (NationPress) On Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid heartfelt tribute to the late former President Pranab Mukherjee on his birth anniversary, referring to him as a “towering statesman” whose unwavering dedication to the nation has had a lasting influence on Indian democracy.

Born on December 11, 1935, in a Bengali family, Pranab Mukherjee became one of India's most revered leaders. He held the prestigious position of President from 2012 to 2017, marking the first time someone from West Bengal occupied this highest constitutional office.

In a message shared on X, PM Modi expressed, “Honoring Shri Pranab Mukherjee on his birth anniversary. A towering statesman and a scholar of exceptional depth, he served India with unwavering dedication across decades of public life. Pranab Babu's intellect and clarity of thought enriched our democracy at every step. It's a privilege that I got to learn so much from him over the many years we interacted.”

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also paid homage, noting that the former President's legacy will continue to illuminate India's democratic values. “Tributes to former President of India Pranab Mukherjee Ji on his Jayanti. A leader dedicated to public service, Mukherjee Ji's profound understanding of the constitution defined his tenures in public offices. His life and works will continue to inspire our democratic journey,” Shah wrote on X.

Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda shared his respects, stating, “My heartfelt tributes to Bharat Ratna Shri Pranab Mukherjee Ji on his Jayanti. His long journey in public service shaped India in many meaningful ways.” He emphasized that Mukherjee's “humility, vast knowledge and significant contributions” impacted countless lives and will inspire future generations committed to India's progress.

Throughout his extensive career, Pranab Mukherjee held several vital portfolios, including Finance, Defence, Commerce, and External Affairs Minister. He was elected to the Rajya Sabha five times starting in 1969 and to the Lok Sabha twice between 2004 and 2012. For 23 years, he was a member of the Congress Working Committee, the party's highest decision-making body.

From 2004 to 2012, Mukherjee was instrumental in shaping key policy decisions addressing administrative reforms, the Right to Information, the Right to Employment, food and energy security, the advancement of IT and telecommunications, and the establishment of the UIDAI and the Metro Rail network.

Earlier in his career, during the 1970s and 1980s, he played a crucial role in establishing Regional Rural Banks in 1975, followed by the creation of the EXIM Bank of India and the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development between 1981 and 1982.