Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao the Scholar and the Statesman

The scholarstatesman P.V. Narasimha Rao has taken over the challenging post of Prime Ministership. Fortunately he has behind him an eventful political career spanning five decades. He always sought and handled with tremendous skills and finesse tasks that many politicians would prefer to avoid. Narasimha Rao brings to his new positions a wealth of experience as a linguist, journalist, scholar, philosopher, lawyer and above all a successful administrator. This statesman has distinguished himself in every field of interest, be it literature or diplomacy. Only a prime minister who can act in national interests without worrying at all about the impact of the steps taken by his government on his future political career can take the thought decisions that the present challenges demand. The Congress parliamentary party?s choice of Narasimha Rao has given to the country exactly such a dynamic leader at this critical juncture. In fact the selection of Rao promises a wind of change in India?s political life. Being in intellectual of highest caliber and a literary gent besides a good administrator, Rao has established himself as a charismatic statesman. Is the Congress Party facing an uphill task without having any representative from NehruGandhi family at the helm of affairs? In postRajiv scenario, Rao is holding the troops cards and has emerged as a saviour of the 106 years organization. Did Rao favour a culture of the consensus rather than of confrontation? As long as the Congress remains on an even keel, Rao will be best person to administer the Party machinery. He enjoys an independent power base and has a mind of his own. The Party?s policies are clear and are being implemented with continuity. The slightest error on his part would only enhance the annoyance of the masses. Will he be able to steer the nation out of all perils including massive poverty and terrorism? Indeed the new Prime Minister has an uphill task ahead. He has to live up to the legacy of Nehruvian image of leadership.