PM Modi Commemorates Biju Patnaik's Courageous Campaign in 1946

Addressing the Indonesian Parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recalled the historic contribution of Biju Patnaik. He said that the role of the former Chief Minister of Odisha has been very important in the strong partnership that India-Indonesia are moving forward with today. In fact, when the Dutch army attacked Java in 1946, Biju Patnaik was the one who brought the leaders of Indonesia to India safely. His courageous step changed the relationship between the two countries forever. Biju Patnaik was a highly skilled pilot before entering politics. The Prime Minister said that when the situation in Indonesia deteriorated in 1946, former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru entrusted him with the responsibility of rescuing the stranded leaders. After this assurance, Biju Patnaik reached the war-torn area with his wife. From there, he along with the then Prime Minister of Indonesia Sutan Shahrir evacuated Vice President Mohammad Hatta, after which they came to India. Referring to this courageous campaign, PM Modi said that it was Biju Patnaik who gave a new lease of life to both the countries.