Rajkumari Amrit Kaur, also known as Rajkumari Amrit Kaur of Kapurthala, was a prominent Indian freedom fighter and a social reformer. She was born on February 2, 1889, in Lucknow, India, into the royal family of Kapurthala in Punjab. Despite her privileged background, she dedicated her life to the service of the nation and its people.
Amrit Kaur's contributions were not limited to politics; she also played a crucial role in establishing the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi.
The idea for the establishment of AIIMS was conceived by the then Health Minister of India, Ms. Rajkumari Amrit Kaur, who wanted to create an institution that could provide high-quality medical education and healthcare services in India.
Rajkumari Amrit Kaur actively participated in the Indian independence movement led by Mahatma Gandhi. She was deeply influenced by Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence and civil disobedience, and she played a significant role in organizing protests, participating in satyagrahas (non-violent resistance), and supporting the Quit India Movement.
Apart from her political involvement, Rajkumari Amrit Kaur was deeply committed to social reforms and humanitarian work. She was a strong advocate for women's rights and worked tirelessly to improve the status of women in Indian society. She fought against various social evils, including child marriage and untouchability.
Amrit Kaur's dedication to public service led her to be appointed as the first woman member of the Viceroy's Executive Council in 1947. She became the Minister of Health in independent India's first cabinet, a position she held from 1947 to 1957. In this role, she played a crucial part in shaping the healthcare system of the newly independent nation. She focused on expanding medical facilities, improving public health, and promoting traditional Indian medicine systems like Ayurveda.
Throughout her life, Rajkumari Amrit Kaur continued to work tirelessly for the betterment of society, focusing on education, healthcare, and the welfare of women and children. Her contributions to the nation were widely recognized, and she received several awards and honors, including the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian award, in 1954.
Rajkumari Amrit Kaur passed away on February 6, 1964, leaving behind a legacy of selfless service, patriotism, and commitment to social justice and human welfare. Her contributions to India's freedom struggle and post-independence development continue to inspire generations of Indians to this day.
