Ghulam Nabi Azad: A Journey from Congress Leadership to Political Independence

Ghulam Nabi Azad was born on March 7, 1949, in Jammu and Kashmir, India. He completed his schooling in Jammu and pursued higher education at the Government Medical College, Jammu, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Medical Sciences (MBBS).

Azad entered politics in the early 1970s and quickly rose through the ranks of the Indian National Congress party. He was known for his effective organizational skills and grassroots connect.

Azad served as the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir from November 2005 to July 2008. During his tenure, he focused on development initiatives and worked towards improving governance in the state.

He has held several portfolios in the Union Cabinet, including Health and Family Welfare, Civil Aviation, and Parliamentary Affairs, during the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government.

Azad has been elected multiple times to both the Lok Sabha (Lower House) and the Rajya Sabha (Upper House) of the Indian Parliament. He has represented various constituencies, including Jammu and Kashmir and Maharashtra.

Ghulam Nabi Azad has been a key leader within the Indian National Congress party. He has held positions such as General Secretary and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha.

Ghulam Nabi Azad resigned from the Indian National Congress in August 2022, marking a significant shift in Indian politics. His departure from the party with which he had been associated for decades signaled his readiness for a new political journey.

Following his resignation from the Congress party, Ghulam Nabi Azad founded the Democratic Progressive Azad Party on September 4, 2022. This move underscored his determination to chart a new course in Indian politics and pursue his vision for the country.

Ghulam Nabi Azad has been honored with the Padma Bhushan Award for his significant contributions to Indian politics and public service.

Given his roots in Jammu and Kashmir, Azad has been vocal about the issues facing the region. He has advocated for dialogue and reconciliation to address the complex political situation in the state.