Turmeric Man of Himachal Pradesh

Introduction

In the annals of Himachal Pradesh's history, one name shines brighter than most - Dr. YS Parmar. A visionary leader and the architect of this enchanting hill state, Dr. Parmar's life and contributions have left an indelible mark on the region. His legacy continues to be celebrated, with many affectionately referring to him as 'Himachal Nirmata' or the 'creator of Himachal'. 

Himachal Nirmata

Yashwant Singh Parmar

1st Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh

Early Life and Political Beginnings

A Glimpse into Yashwant Singh Parmar's Early Years

Born on August 4, 1906, Yashwant Singh Parmar grew up in a modest family in Himachal Pradesh. His upbringing instilled in him a deep love for his homeland, which would later shape his political aspirations.

Personal Life	Details
Date of Birth	August 4, 1906
Place of Birth	Chanalag village, Princely State of Sirmaur
Family Background	Son of a prominent local family; his father was the secretary to the ruler of Sirmaur Father's name - Shivanand Singh Parmar
Education	- Schooling in Nahan
	- B.A. (Honours) from Forman Christian College, Lahore in 1926
	- LL.B and M.A. from Canning College, Lucknow in 1928
	- PhD from Lucknow University in 1944 (Thesis on polyandry in the Himalayas)
Career	- Magistrate for Sirmaur court (1930-1937)
	- Session Judge (1937-1940) - Member of Theosophical Society, Dehradun (1929). - President of All India State People's Conference (1947).
Notable Work	Author of "Polyandry in the Himalayas" (Published in 1975)
Date of Passing	May 2, 1981, at Snowdon Hospital in Shimla

Entry into Indian Politics

Dr. Y.S. Parmar was an exceptional parliamentarian, administrator, and statesman who was known for his simple habits, unwavering integrity, and his strong desire to serve the people. He started his illustrious journey after an outstanding academic career and a distinguished tenure in the judiciary. In 1941, he abandoned his legal pursuits to champion the cause of Himachal Pradesh.

Throughout his legal career, Dr. Parmar had earned a reputation for integrity and dedication. He was respected in Himachal Pradesh, and this respect would later help him transition into the world of politics where he would play a pivotal role in the state's transformation. Joining the Indian National Congress, he quickly became a prominent figure in the party. His dedication and leadership qualities soon caught the attention of senior party members.

The Struggle for Himachal Pradesh

Satyagraha Movement in Suket State: Under Dr. Parmar's astute leadership, the Hill State Peoples' Conference was formed, marking the initiation of the Satyagraha Movement in Suket State. This pivotal movement would eventually pave the way for the establishment of Himachal Pradesh in 1948.

The road to uniting all Himachalis and securing statehood for Himachal Pradesh was undoubtedly long and arduous. Yet, through Dr. Parmar's sagacious leadership, this goal was achieved through peaceful and constitutional means, leaving an indelible legacy.

This movement drew national attention to the hill people's aspirations, prompting the Government of India to consider their demands. This brought the issues of the hill people to the forefront, attracting the attention of the Government of India. Dr. Parmar's tireless efforts and negotiation skills played a pivotal role in securing a separate Himachal Pradesh, distinct from Punjab.

Securing Himachal Pradesh's Separate Identity

In the history of Himachal Pradesh, there was a significant moment that marked a dramatic turn of events where the state's identity was at stake. Let's explore this critical phase, led by Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar, and the remarkable journey that ensured the region's unique status. 

During a tumultuous era, there was a significant lobby within Punjab that advocated for the merger of Himachal Pradesh with the neighboring state. This period was fraught with uncertainty and posed a formidable challenge to Himachal's sovereignty. In the face of this looming threat, Dr. Y.S. Parmar, who was serving as the Chief Minister at the time, undertook an arduous mission to secure Himachal Pradesh's separate identity. His unwavering determination and persuasive abilities played a pivotal role in convincing the Government of India to uphold the state's distinct identity.

Dr. Parmar's commitment to Himachal's welfare knew no bounds. He famously declared, "No sacrifice is too great to save Himachal Pradesh," reflecting his dedication to preserving the region's individuality.

Transition to Union Territory: A Difficult Choice

Sacrifices for Himachal Pradesh

Dr. YS Parmar's commitment to the state of Himachal Pradesh extended far beyond words and political strategies. Dr. Parmar's dedication to Himachal Pradesh was unwavering, and this commitment was demonstrated through his actions.

• He sacrificed personal comfort and security to serve the people of Himachal Pradesh.
• Despite facing numerous challenges and hardships, he persisted in his mission to uplift the region.

During his tenure, Himachal Pradesh transitioned from being a Chief Commissioner's Province to a Union Territory. This transformation presented unique challenges and opportunities. He stepped down from his role as Chief Minister, and the Lieutenant Governor assumed control as the Administrator of the State. This transition marked Himachal's shift from a part 'C' state to a Union Territory.

On July 11, 1963, democracy was restored in Himachal Pradesh and the Territorial Council was converted into a Legislative Assembly. Despite not being a member of the Territorial Council, Dr. Parmar was unanimously elected as the leader of the Congress Legislative Party and became Chief Minister again.

Dr. Parmar's vision was to see the hill men gain their own identity. He worked tirelessly towards this goal until the statehood was achieved in 1971. It was due to Dr. Parmar's persistent advocacy that Himachal Pradesh was able to achieve statehood.

The Merger of Hill Areas

His sincerity and effective advocacy further led to the merger of hill areas, encompassing Kangra, Shimla, Kullu, and Lahaul-Spiti, in November 1966. This merger, occurring during the Re-organization of Punjab, significantly increased Himachal's population and territorial expanse.

The people of both new and old areas celebrated the obliteration of artificial barriers that had long separated them from neighboring communities. Dr. Parmar's leadership fostered a sense of unity, rooted in cultural, social, and linguistic affinity.

The Vision for Himachal Pradesh

Dr. YS Parmar's leadership went beyond governance; it included a grand vision for Himachal Pradesh, its inhabitants, and the cultural harmony of the region. He envisaged a prosperous, self-sufficient Himachal Pradesh that could preserve its distinct cultural identity.

He was the first person to identify himself as a ‘Pahari’, and his actions inspired others to embrace their cultural roots. Dr. Parmar was a passionate advocate of Pahari customs, which was reflected in his choice of clothing, cuisine, and architecture.

Political Achievements

• In 1948, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar led the Suket Satyagraha, resulting in the merging of princely states into Himachal Pradesh.
• He was nominated to the All India Congress Committee (AICC) in the same year.
• Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar became a Member of the Chief Commissioner's Advisory Council in 1948.
• He served as the President of the Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee from 1948 to 1950.
• Dr. Y.S. Parmar contested and won the first Legislative Assembly election in 1951-52, becoming the first Chief Minister, serving from 1952 to 1956.
• He was elected to Parliament in 1957.
• He was re-elected as the President of the Himachal Pradesh Congress Committee in 1960.
• In 1961, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar became an Advocate at the Supreme Court.
• He continued to lead as the President of HPCC during 1961-62 and 1963.
• Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar was re-elected as the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh in 1963 and again in 1967, serving continuously from 1967 to 1977.

Shaping the State's Destiny

Yashwant Singh Parmar's most enduring legacy lies in his role as the chief architect of Himachal Pradesh. From the 1940s until 1977, he worked tirelessly to turn the dream of an independent Himachal Pradesh into a reality. His dedication to the cause and unwavering commitment earned him the titles of 'the founder' and 'the creator' of the Himachal Pradesh state.

Contributions

• Dr. Y.S. Parmar made significant contributions to the development of Himachal Pradesh, particularly in the areas of road construction, horticulture, and agriculture. 
• His foresight and strong leadership during the early years helped Himachal Pradesh become a model for development in hilly regions across the country. 
• Dr. Parmar opposed the application of nationwide standards for development and planning in hill areas, advocating instead for the formulation of development strategies based on the local geography. He believed that schemes designed for the plains were of little use in the hills, and his persuasive arguments convinced the Union Government to adopt a more specific approach to hill development. 
• He played a crucial role in building essential infrastructure, educational institutions, and promoting economic growth in Himachal Pradesh.

Dr. Parmar's vision for specific planning in the hills won him a unique place in the hearts of every citizen of the region. His efforts laid the foundation for the state's prosperity.

Legacy and Honors

He served as the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh until 1977.Parmar's visionary leadership extended to the development of the state.

Honors

• The Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, established in 1985 in Solan, is named after Dr. Parmar.
• Himachal Pradesh University has a Dr. Y.S. Parmar Chair and Parmar Peeth, focusing on various aspects of Himachal Pradesh's societies, cultures, languages, and politics.
• The Government Medical College and Hospital in Nahan is named in his honor.
• The Government Senior Secondary School in Dhaneta, Nadaun, bears his name.
• In 1988, the Government of India issued a 60 paise postage stamp to honor Dr. Parmar.

• Statues resembling him were placed on The Ridge in Shimla on August 4, 1984, and in his birthplace, the village of Chanalag in district Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh, on August 15, 2015.

• The Yashwant Singh Parmar Sahitya Award is an annual literary accolade named after him.
• The Himachal Pradesh government's Department of Agriculture renamed its scheme for promoting vegetable production under protected cultivation as 'Dr. Y.S. Parmar Kisan Swarozgar Yojna'.

Dr. Parmar's tireless dedication to the cause of Himachal Pradesh has left an indelible mark on the state's history. His contributions to the creation, progress, and constitutional development of the region have solidified his legacy as Himachal's Nirmata, or creator. He will forever be remembered as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.