Independence Day 2022: The changemakers of Independent India | India@75

The Indian tale of independence is a canvas of heroics and revolution. Some braved the colonisers, while some played pioneers. As India celebrates 'Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav' marking its 75 years of glory, we take a look at the heroes who wore change, not capes:

APJ Abdul Kalam
The 'Missile Man of India' needs no introduction. Former President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam's story is a testimony of grit and hardwork. His journey from a small village in Ramweswaram to ISRO gave India its first Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV). He went on to produce a number of successful missiles including Agni- India's first intermediate-range ballistic missile. Dr Kalam's tenure as President from 2002-2005 is fondly remembered for his inclination towards kids.

MS Swaminathan
Agriculture scientist MS Swaminathan regarded as 'Father of Green Revolution' transformed the face of Indian agriculture in the 60s. He introduced hybrid varieties, synthetic fertilisers in order to minimize imports and boost production of rice and wheat. His contribution in farm sector from 2004-06 is a significant one. Constituted under his chairmanship, Swaminathan Commitee between 2004 & 2006 submitted 5 reports with farmers' distress as key focus. Indian farmers continue to demand implementation of the report which recommended 50% MSP over cost of production

Bezwada Wilson

This unsung hero is spearheading a nationwide movement to abolish the dehumanizing practice of manual scavenging in India. Bezwada Wilson's Safai Karamchari movement aims to fight for the rights of septic tank workers who die due to hazardous gases. The campaign challenges the lackdaisical government approach and the stinking legacy of casteist stigma. Despite the practice being banned in 25 years, it remains a thing. Even as India completes its 75 years, about 535 sewer workers have died in the last 5 years, Wilson told The Wire

Kailash Satyarthi

Nobel Peace Laureate Kailash Satyarthi has been instrumental in the liberation of over 85,000 children in India from exploitation, slavery and trafficking since the 1980s. His Bachpan Bachao Andolan set the roadmap for child rights and education. He continues his fight for quality education to children. As per a report, Satyarthi's NGO saved 1600 trafficked children from 'situaions of exploitation' during the 2020 COVID-19 induced lockdown. The child rights activist, as of 2014 freed about 83,000 children from slavery

Lawyers Menaka Guruswamy and Arundhati Katju
The lawyer-duo fought for the repeal of colonial era Section 377 which criminalized consensual gay sex. A 5-judge bench of Supreme Court in 2018 struck down the law saying it violated the consitutional right to equality. The landmark judgement overturning the archaic law was possible due the campaign orchesrated by Menaka and Arundati. In 2019, the lawyer-duo came out as a couple.