Chaturanan Mishra, Indian trade union leader and politician (d. 2011)

A Life Dedicated to Public Service: Chaturanan Mishra (1925-2011)

Chaturanan Mishra, whose impactful life spanned from April 7, 1925, to July 2, 2011, stands remembered as a distinguished Indian politician and a committed trade unionist. His career was characterized by a profound dedication to the welfare of the common people, particularly farmers and laborers, reflecting his deep roots in socialist ideals and public service.

Early Life and Political Genesis

Born in the serene village of Nahar, located within Bihar's culturally significant Madhubani District, Chaturanan Mishra's origins were deeply embedded in rural India. This background undoubtedly shaped his profound understanding of the challenges faced by agricultural communities and the working class. From an early age, he gravitated towards political activism, rapidly becoming a key figure in the Communist Party of India (CPI) in Bihar. His astute leadership was instrumental in expanding the party's reach and influence across the state, a region often considered a crucible of Indian politics and social movements, where he tirelessly advocated for the marginalized.

Championing Workers' Rights: The Trade Unionist

Beyond his parliamentary and party roles, Mishra was a fervent and tireless advocate for labor rights, dedicating a significant portion of his life to trade unionism. He actively worked to organize workers across various industries, passionately negotiating for better wages, safer working conditions, and improved social security. His unwavering efforts empowered countless laborers, giving them a much-needed voice and a robust platform in a rapidly industrializing India. This steadfast commitment to the working class was a cornerstone of his political philosophy and a primary driving force throughout his extensive public life.

National Service: Agriculture Minister in the United Front

Chaturanan Mishra’s distinguished political career culminated in a crucial national assignment when he was appointed India's Agriculture Minister. This highly significant portfolio was entrusted to him during the tenure of the United Front government, a coalition of non-Congress, non-BJP parties that governed the nation from 1996 to 1998. In a country where agriculture remains the primary livelihood for a vast majority of its population and the backbone of its economy, his role involved navigating complex issues ranging from ensuring food security and enhancing agricultural productivity to promoting farmer welfare and spearheading rural development initiatives. His tenure as minister was marked by dedicated efforts to bring about policy changes that were fundamentally beneficial to the farming community across India.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Chaturanan Mishra?

Chaturanan Mishra was a prominent Indian politician and a committed trade unionist, renowned for his leadership in the Communist Party of India (CPI) in Bihar and his service as India's Agriculture Minister.

Where was Chaturanan Mishra born?

He was born in Nahar, a village situated in the Madhubani District of Bihar, India.

What political party was Chaturanan Mishra primarily associated with?

He was a key leader of the Communist Party of India (CPI) in the state of Bihar.

What significant ministerial position did Chaturanan Mishra hold?

He served as the Agriculture Minister of India at the national level.

During which government did Chaturanan Mishra serve as Agriculture Minister?

He held the position of Agriculture Minister in the United Front government, which was a multi-party coalition that governed India from 1996 to 1998.

When did Chaturanan Mishra live and serve?

Chaturanan Mishra lived from April 7, 1925, to July 2, 2011, dedicating many decades to public service.