(By Prof. S.S. Dogra)
In a vast democratic nation like India, the true identity of a public representative is not merely defined by winning elections, but by their active participation in Parliament, commitment to public welfare, and contribution to nation-building. History bears witness that only those individuals become immortal in the memories of society and the nation who establish new benchmarks of excellence in their respective fields. Be it Sachin Tendulkar in cricket, Amitabh Bachchan in cinema, or Swami Vivekananda in spiritual philosophy — all these legendary personalities enhanced India’s prestige globally through their dedication, struggle, and extraordinary work ethic.
Continuing this glorious tradition, it is a matter of immense pride and honor not only for Himachal Pradesh but for the entire nation that Anurag Singh Thakur has been conferred with the prestigious “Sansad Ratna” Award for the second time. This achievement is not merely an award; rather, it is a historic national recognition of his active parliamentary role, strong voice on issues of national importance, dedication to public service, and effective leadership abilities.
Fortunately, I had the opportunity to personally interview Anurag Thakur twice, in the years 2009 and 2013. During those interactions, I strongly felt that this young leader from Himachal would one day bring immense pride to his family, state, and country at both national and international levels. Today, that belief stands validated before the nation as a historic achievement.
In my recently published book, “Tiger of India – Anurag Singh (A Magnificent Journey from Hamirpur to Parliament),” I have discussed the Sansad Ratna honour in detail. Published by India Netbooks Private Limited, the 14th chapter of the book titled “Honoured with the Sansad Ratna Award” elaborately describes this achievement from pages 71 to 76.
“A Historic Achievement in Parliamentary Life”
January 19, 2019, became a golden chapter in Anurag Thakur’s political journey when he was honoured with the prestigious “Sansad Ratna Award” for his outstanding performance in the Indian Parliament. He received this recognition under the Jury Committee Special Award category. With this achievement, he became the first Member of Parliament from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to receive this prestigious honour. At the same time, he also emerged as one of the few MPs from North India to receive the award.
This achievement proves that sincerity, integrity, dedication, and accountability towards the people continue to remain supreme values in politics. The Sansad Ratna Award was instituted in 2010 on the suggestion of former President of India Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. Dr. Kalam believed that Members of Parliament who perform exceptionally well should be recognized in order to strengthen Indian democracy and inspire others.
Impressive Parliamentary Performance
Elected five consecutive times as Member of Parliament from Hamirpur, Anurag Thakur has maintained an exceptionally impressive parliamentary record. His working style clearly reflects discipline, deep study, and a thorough understanding of important issues.
His major parliamentary achievements include:
• More than 90 percent attendance in Lok Sabha sessions
• Raising public welfare issues through over 200 questions
• Active participation in important committees related to budget, defence, information technology, and youth affairs
• A record of 100 percent utilization of MPLADS funds
• Impactful speeches enriched with facts and solution-oriented perspectives
These accomplishments have made him one of the most active and respected parliamentarians in the country.
“An Inspiring Image of Youth Leadership”
Anurag Thakur’s political journey has remained a source of inspiration for the youth. As President of the BCCI, he played a significant role in Indian cricket administration. His contribution in giving international recognition to the Dharamshala Cricket Stadium is especially remembered.
Apart from this, he also served as the National President of the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM), where he motivated young people across the country to participate in politics and nation-building. His personality is considered a remarkable example of energy, vision, and organizational capability.
“Sansad Ratna: More Than Just an Honour”
The Sansad Ratna Award is not merely a recognition, but a symbol of democratic values. It sends a strong message that active participation in Parliament, serious study, and meaningful discussions on public issues are the true hallmarks of genuine public representation.
At a time when politics is increasingly being discussed in the context of public service and accountability, Anurag Thakur stands out as an energetic, scholarly, and hardworking parliamentarian. This is why his being honoured with the Sansad Ratna Award for the second time has become a matter of immense pride for the Himachali community.
Delhi Pradesh Himachali Cell Convener Sanjay Rana also extended his special congratulations on this achievement. He stated that Anurag Thakur has played a significant role in the development of the Dharamshala Stadium, expansion of road and railway infrastructure in Himachal Pradesh, strengthening the BJP organization, and establishing Himachal’s identity in national politics.
Future Possibilities
It would not be an exaggeration to say that Anurag Thakur has today established himself as a leader in Indian politics who possesses the capability to shoulder even greater national responsibilities in the future. His popularity is no longer confined to Himachal Pradesh alone, but is continuously growing among youth and the general public across the country.
By being honoured with the Sansad Ratna Award, he has proved that when dedication, vision, and national interest remain supreme in politics, any public representative can secure a place in the golden pages of history. For Himachal Pradesh, this is truly a moment of pride, inspiration, and honour.
(Prof. S.S.Dogra-is the Author “Tiger of India” Bureau Chief-Delhi for Himalini Magazine, Nepal)
