Former PM Indira Gandhi source of inspiration for me: Karnataka minister Laxmi Hebbalkar

MANGALURU: Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi lived up to her title as the ‘Iron Lady.’ Her personality is a model for the entire world, said Laxmi Hebbalkar, minister of women and child development and Udupi district minister.Speaking at the commemoration of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel organised by the Udupi District Congress Committee at the District Congress Bhavan on Friday, the minister said that Indira Gandhi is her ideal and a source of inspiration for millions like her.“Indira Gandhi's politics is an ideal not only for women but also for men. Under her leadership, India was recognised as a strong nation on the international stage. She initiated several economic and cultural reforms, including the nationalisation of banks and the Green Revolution, for the country's self-reliance,” said Hebbalkar.Leading India during times when even having a meal was difficult, the minister said, adding that Indira Gandhi became a model for the world by leading the nation in times of crises. “Known for her sacrifice and dedication, the leadership of Indira Gandhi inspires us,” said Hebbalkar.The efforts of every worker are essential for building and growing the Congress party. If the country is to survive, the Congress party must survive, she said and called upon party workers to strive to build Congress at the grassroots level.“Despite losing in five constituencies in Udupi district, the Congress party remains strong in the district. The Congress party is crucial for the future of the country and the next generation,” she said.Lauding Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel as an ideal leader, Hebbalkar said that the credit for unifying a divided India goes to Patel. “His role in the creation of a united India was significant,” she said.Udupi District Congress Committee President Ashok Kumar Kodavoor, District Mahila Congress President Jyothi Hebbar, leaders Uday Kumar Shetty, Ramesh Kanchan, and others were present.