New Delhi, May 18 – Marking the 51st anniversary of India’s first nuclear test, the Congress on Sunday paid tribute to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi for her bold leadership during Operation Smiling Buddha, which catapulted India into the league of nuclear-capable nations.
India conducted its first nuclear test on May 18, 1974, at Pokhran in Rajasthan. Codenamed Smiling Buddha, the historic test made India the sixth nation in the world to demonstrate nuclear capability.
Kharge and Rahul Gandhi Reflect on the Milestone
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge took to X to commemorate the occasion, stating,“51 years ago, India conducted its first nuclear test and became the sixth nation in the world to carry out such tests. Our scientists and researchers achieved this extraordinary feat through their ingenuity and dedication. We are deeply grateful to them.”
Kharge also praised Indira Gandhi's leadership, saying she showed “exemplary and dynamic leadership” and “remarkable courage even in the face of adversity.”
Echoing the sentiment, former Congress president Rahul Gandhi acknowledged the vision behind the achievement in a Facebook post.
“Under the visionary and decisive leadership of Indira Gandhi, India conducted its first nuclear test, Operation Smiling Buddha, 51 years ago at Pokhran, Rajasthan,” he wrote.
Expressing his gratitude to the scientific community, he added, “Their legacy lives on, inspiring generations to pursue technological advancement and strengthen India's strategic capabilities.”
Congress Celebrates a Defining Moment in India’s Scientific Journey
In a separate post on X, the Congress party described May 18, 1974, as a “proud day” for India.“This test became a symbol of the country’s scientific capability and strong political leadership,” the party stated.
Operation Smiling Buddha remains a cornerstone in India's journey toward technological self-reliance and strategic strength, with Congress leaders reaffirming their pride in the scientific community and the political resolve that enabled it.