Anna Hazare

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Anna Hazare Jantar Mantar (cropped)

Anna Hazare
Born	Kisan Baburao Hazare Birth date -1st March 1966 Bhingar, Bombay Presidency, British India
Nationality	Indian
Occupation	Social activist
Known for	Indian anti-corruption movement, Right to Information Act, Lokpal Bill
Awards	Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan

Kisan Baburao Hazare (born 15 June 1937), popularly known as Anna Hazare, is an Indian social activist who is recognized for his contributions to the development of the village of Ralegan Siddhi and his role in the Indian anti-corruption movement. He has been a prominent advocate for the Right to Information Act and the Lokpal Bill.

Early Life

Anna Hazare was born in Bhingar, a small village in the Bombay Presidency of British India. He was the eldest son in a family of modest means. Hazare's early education was completed in his village, and he later moved to Mumbai to seek employment.

Military Service

Hazare joined the Indian Army in 1960 and served as a driver. During his service, he was posted in various regions, including the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965. His experiences in the army played a significant role in shaping his views on discipline and social service.

Social Activism

After retiring from the army in 1975, Hazare returned to his native village of Ralegan Siddhi. He was deeply moved by the poverty and social issues plaguing the village. Hazare initiated several programs aimed at watershed development, education, and anti-alcoholism. His efforts transformed Ralegan Siddhi into a model village.

Anti-Corruption Movement

Anna Hazare gained national prominence in 2011 when he led a hunger strike to demand the enactment of the Jan Lokpal Bill, a stronger anti-corruption law. His protest in New Delhi attracted widespread support and media attention, leading to significant public discourse on corruption in India.

Right to Information Act

Hazare was also instrumental in the campaign for the Right to Information Act, which was enacted in 2005. This law empowers Indian citizens to request information from public authorities, promoting transparency and accountability in governance.

Awards and Recognition

Anna Hazare has received several awards for his social work, including the Padma Shri in 1990 and the Padma Bhushan in 1992. These awards are among the highest civilian honors in India.

Legacy

Anna Hazare's work has inspired many social activists and movements across India. His commitment to non-violence and grassroots development continues to influence contemporary social and political activism.

See Also

• Indian anti-corruption movement
• Right to Information Act
• Lokpal Bill
• Ralegan Siddhi