Write a critical note on the evolution and significance of the slogan “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan”. (UPSC 2013)

“Jai Jawan Jai Kisan” was coined by Lal Bahadur Shastri in 1965 amid war and food scarcity. It linked two essentials of national survival: a secure border and a secure food supply. The slogan soon became a moral framework for self-reliance and public sacrifice.

• Evolution: It was later expanded by “Jai Vigyan” and “Jai Anusandhan”, showing that defence, science and research are now equally vital for national strength.
• Significance: It highlighted the soldier and farmer as equal pillars of the nation.
• Policy relevance: It still guides defence indigenisation, higher military preparedness, food security, digital farming, and investment in innovation.
• Critical view: The slogan is inspiring, but farmers still face low incomes, climate risks and market stress. Defence modernisation is also slowed by high revenue expenditure and pension burdens. Science and research spend remains low.

Thus, the slogan remains deeply relevant, but its true value lies in converting patriotic sentiment into sustained support for soldiers, farmers, scientists and innovation-driven growth.