PIB Summary- 15th April, 2025 | PIB (Press Information Bureau) Summary - UPSC PDF Download

Celebrations of the 135th Birth Anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

Context

The 135th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is being observed, honoring his contributions to social justice and the Indian Constitution.

Early Life

• Born on April 14, 1891, in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar was from a Dalit (formerly untouchable) family.
• His family faced severe social discrimination, and he had to struggle against caste-based prejudices from a young age.

Education

• Despite the challenges, Ambedkar excelled in his studies.
• He earned degrees from prestigious institutions like Columbia University in the United States and the London School of Economics.
• He was the first person from his community to receive a formal education.

Fight Against Caste Discrimination

• Ambedkar dedicated his life to ending caste-based discrimination and untouchability in India.
• He advocated for social reforms to ensure equal rights for Dalits, women, and other marginalized communities.

Role in Drafting the Constitution

• Dr. Ambedkar is widely recognized as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution.
• He played a significant role in shaping the Constitution to ensure equality, justice, and the protection of human rights for all citizens.
• His efforts led to the inclusion of provisions for abolishing untouchability and ensuring affirmative action for disadvantaged groups.

Political Career

• Ambedkar formed political parties like the Independent Labour Party and the Scheduled Castes Federation to promote the rights of Dalits.
• He also advocated for labour rights and supported social justice causes throughout his life.

Later Life and Conversion to Buddhism

• In 1956, Ambedkar converted to Buddhism along with his followers as a rejection of the Hindu caste system.