Kota, Rajasthan – Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje on Thursday highlighted the enduring lessons she learned in governance during crises from former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, particularly during the 1998 Pokhran nuclear tests. Speaking at an event marking Vajpayee’s 101st birth anniversary in Jhalawar, Raje reflected on her experiences as a junior minister in his government, noting how his guidance during one of India’s most sensitive national moments shaped her understanding of political responsibility and ethical governance.

Raje recalled that Vajpayee personally advised her on managing the challenges surrounding the Pokhran tests, emphasizing careful communication with both the media and the public. She said the experience of navigating a situation that attracted intense national and international scrutiny provided her with valuable insights into crisis management and the nuances of governance under pressure.

“Vajpayee’s guidance during that period taught me how to function with caution and integrity in sensitive circumstances,” Raje said. “The way he managed the situation, balancing national security concerns with public communication, left a lasting impression on me and shaped my approach to governance during crises.”

She also highlighted Vajpayee’s commitment to ethical politics, recounting his personal principle of avoiding manipulative or opportunistic alliances purely for political gain. Quoting the former prime minister, Raje said, “I cannot indulge in politics of manipulation and opportunism. Even if my government falls, let it fall. The House has seen my conduct and behaviour. I cannot form alliances with other parties merely for the sake of power. If we have done good work, our government will come back again.”

Raje further noted that Vajpayee had extended logistical support to her during her tenure as a junior minister, including providing a helicopter for official duties, reflecting his hands-on approach to empowering his team. She said such support and mentorship were instrumental in building her confidence as a young minister navigating complex administrative responsibilities.

The commemorative event also featured ceremonial activities, including the plantation of 2,100 teak saplings at the Love Kush Vatika, with a target of planting 11,000 saplings to develop an ‘Atal Van’. Raje and Jhalawar-Baran MP Dushyant Singh participated in the initiative, aimed at transforming the area into a green and sustainable zone over the coming years.

In addition to environmental initiatives, the event saw foundation stones laid and inaugurations carried out for several development projects in Jhalawar district, focusing on strengthening healthcare services and other public amenities. Raje also recited excerpts from Vajpayee’s poetry, highlighting the former prime minister’s literary sensibilities alongside his political legacy.

Plans were discussed for further enhancing Love Kush Vatika and Atal Van, including the installation of statues and additional landscaping, with the long-term aim of creating a lush green public space that commemorates Vajpayee’s vision for development and environmental stewardship.

Through her reflections, Raje emphasized that Vajpayee’s leadership during the Pokhran nuclear tests exemplified a model of governance grounded in ethical principles, careful decision-making, and respect for democratic institutions—a model she said continues to inspire her approach to public service.