V. V. Giri (1894–1980)
Full Name: Varahagiri Venkata Giri
Born: August 10, 1894, Berhampur, Odisha, India
Died: June 24, 1980, India
---
Early Life and Education
V. V. Giri was born into a Telugu family in Berhampur, Odisha. He pursued higher education in India and abroad, including studying law at Trinity College Dublin in Ireland. His time in Ireland exposed him to the struggles for independence and the labor movement, which shaped his future activism.
---
Role in Indian Freedom Movement
Giri was deeply influenced by Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian independence movement. He was actively involved in trade union activities and worked tirelessly for the rights of laborers and workers in India. His commitment to workers’ welfare made him a prominent labor leader.
---
Political and Trade Union Leadership
V. V. Giri was a founding figure in India’s trade union movement.
He served as the President of the Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC).
He was actively involved in negotiating labor reforms and promoting industrial peace in the nascent Indian economy.
His efforts helped in shaping labor policies post-independence.
---
Political Career and Presidency
V. V. Giri served as the Governor of several states including Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, and Karnataka.
He was the Union Minister for Labour in the cabinet of Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
In 1969, he was elected as the 4th President of India, serving from 1969 to 1974.
His presidential election was significant as he ran as an independent candidate supported by opposition parties against the official candidate of the ruling Congress party, marking a notable moment in Indian political history.
---
Legacy
V. V. Giri is remembered as a champion of workers’ rights and a leader who bridged the gap between labor movements and political governance.
His presidency is noted for its emphasis on social justice, equality, and the welfare of the common man.
He was awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumously in 1975, India’s highest civilian award, recognizing his lifelong dedication to the nation.
V. V. Giri was not only a prominent politician and labor leader but also an author who wrote extensively on labor issues, trade unionism, and social justice. His writings reflect his deep commitment to the rights and welfare of workers and the development of industrial relations in India.
Notable Writings and Books by V. V. Giri
1. “Labour Problems and Industrial Development in India”
This is one of V. V. Giri’s most influential works. In this book, he explores the challenges faced by Indian labor in the context of industrialization and economic development. It provides insights into labor policies, workers’ rights, and the relationship between labor and management. The book became a foundational text for understanding labor relations in independent India.
2. “Trade Unionism in India”
This book discusses the history, evolution, and role of trade unions in India. V. V. Giri draws from his extensive experience as a trade union leader to analyze how trade unions contributed to the socio-economic upliftment of workers and the shaping of labor legislation.
3. Articles and Essays on Labour and Social Issues
Throughout his career, V. V. Giri wrote numerous articles and essays in journals, newspapers, and reports focusing on labor rights, social justice, and industrial harmony. His writings often advocated for peaceful negotiations between employers and employees and emphasized the importance of labor welfare in nation-building.
---
Style and Impact
V. V. Giri’s writing style is clear, practical, and deeply informed by his first-hand experience.
His works served as important reference points for policymakers, labor activists, and scholars studying industrial relations in India.
His books helped in educating a generation of labor leaders and influenced the labor policies adopted by the Indian government post-independence.
No comments:
Post a Comment