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Sonia Gandhi
Introduction
About
SONIA GANDHI
Sonia Gandhi born 9th December, 1946 is an Indian politician and the longest-serving president of the Indian National Congress, a prominent social democratic party in India that has played a significant role in the nation's governance since independence. Born Sonia Maino in Lusiana, Italy, she grew up in a traditional Roman Catholic family and later pursued language studies in Cambridge, England, where she met Rajiv Gandhi. The two married in 1968, and Sonia moved to India, becoming a member of the influential Nehru-Gandhi family through her mother-in-law, Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
Sonia initially kept a low profile in public life, supporting her husband, Rajiv Gandhi, as he ascended to become Prime Minister of India. Tragedy struck in 1991 with Rajiv's assassination, thrusting Sonia into the political spotlight. Despite reluctance, she eventually took on a more active role in the Congress Party, assuming leadership in 1998 after internal party pressures.
Under her leadership, the Congress Party saw significant electoral victories, most notably in 2004 when the party, under the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) coalition led by Gandhi, secured a majority in the Lok Sabha elections. Despite being widely expected to assume the Prime Ministership, she declined the position, opting instead to support Manmohan Singh, who became the Prime Minister. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in advancing landmark legislation such as the Right to Information Act and the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme.
Gandhi's leadership was not without controversy, particularly regarding her foreign origin, which sparked legal and political debates during her career. Despite these challenges, she continued to be a formidable force in Indian politics, guiding the Congress Party through various electoral cycles and policy reforms.
In recent years, Sonia Gandhi has taken on roles of interim party president during transitional periods within the Congress Party, emphasizing organizational reforms and strategic alliances. She remains a prominent figure in Indian politics, recognized for her influence and commitment to social welfare and democratic values.
Place of Birth: Lusiana, Veneto, Italy
Date of Birth: 9th December, 1946