🏛️ 🇮🇳 Presidents of India (1950

📜 Introduction

India became a Republic on 26 January 1950. Since then, the President of India has served as the constitutional head of state and symbol of the nation’s unity. Before 1950, the Governor-General was the head under British dominion.

Below is a complete and updated list of Presidents of India from 1950 to 2025, with their term periods, backgrounds, and 5 significant facts about each.

🏛️ List of Presidents of India (1950 to Present)

1. Dr. Rajendra Prasad

🗓️ Term: 1950–1962
🧠 Background: Freedom fighter, lawyer

First President of Independent India.
Only President to serve two full terms.
Major contributor to the Constituent Assembly.
Refused many honors to remain humble.
Gandhian in lifestyle and values.

2. Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan

🗓️ Term: 1962–1967
🧠 Background: Philosopher, educator

His birthday (5 Sept) is celebrated as Teacher’s Day.
First Vice President to become President.
Promoted global educational diplomacy.
Advocated democratic and spiritual values.
Merged Western & Indian philosophical thought.

3. Dr. Zakir Husain

🗓️ Term: 1967–1969
🧠 Background: Educationist

First Muslim President of India.
First to die in office.
Champion of national unity.
Bharat Ratna awardee (1963).
Co-founded Jamia Millia Islamia.

4. Varahagiri Venkata Giri (V.V. Giri)

🗓️ Term: 1969–1974
🧠 Background: Labor leader

Only President elected as an independent.
Advocated labor and workers' rights.
Acted as interim President post-Husain.
Former Governor of Karnataka & Kerala.
Bharat Ratna recipient (1975).

5. Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed

🗓️ Term: 1974–1977
🧠 Background: Lawyer

Second Muslim President.
Died in office during the Emergency.
Signed Emergency Proclamation in 1975.
Loyal to PM Indira Gandhi.
Controversial constitutional role.

6. Neelam Sanjiva Reddy

🗓️ Term: 1977–1982
🧠 Background: Politician

First unopposed President.
Youngest at time of election.
Elected post-Emergency era.
Encouraged parliamentary reforms.
Maintained political neutrality.

7. Giani Zail Singh

🗓️ Term: 1982–1987
🧠 Background: Freedom fighter

First Sikh President.
CM of Punjab before Presidency.
In office during Operation Blue Star.
Tensions with Rajiv Gandhi.
Loyalist to Indira Gandhi.

8. R. Venkataraman

🗓️ Term: 1987–1992
🧠 Background: Lawyer, economist

Served as Defence and Finance Minister.
Oversaw transition post-Rajiv assassination.
Strong focus on economic reforms.
Preserved constitutional dignity.
Supported coalition-building.

9. Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma

🗓️ Term: 1992–1997
🧠 Background: Scholar, lawyer

Governor of multiple states before Presidency.
Respected for constitutional clarity.
Avoided political bias.
Oversaw minority governments.
Died soon after his tenure.

10. K. R. Narayanan

🗓️ Term: 1997–2002
🧠 Background: Diplomat

First Dalit President.
Voted in national elections as President.
Defended secular values.
Criticized handling of Gujarat riots.
Called “People’s President”.

11. Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

🗓️ Term: 2002–2007
🧠 Background: Scientist, engineer

Known as Missile Man of India.
Inspired youth & students nationwide.
Refused to sign controversial bills.
Popular across political boundaries.
Loved as a humble visionary.

12. Pratibha Patil

🗓️ Term: 2007–2012
🧠 Background: Lawyer, politician

First woman President of India.
Advocated women’s rights & education.
Held multiple gubernatorial posts.
Faced criticism for spending.
Encouraged girl-child education.

13. Pranab Mukherjee

🗓️ Term: 2012–2017
🧠 Background: Economist, statesman

Held key portfolios: Finance, Defence, External Affairs.
Known for political consensus-building.
Wrote memoirs & gave lectures post-retirement.
Awarded Bharat Ratna (2019).
Admired for intellectual depth.

14. Ram Nath Kovind

🗓️ Term: 2017–2022
🧠 Background: Dalit leader, lawyer

Second Dalit President.
Governor of Bihar before Presidency.
Maintained low-profile dignity.
Promoted rural and social inclusion.
Strong advocate of constitutional duties.

15. Droupadi Murmu (Current)

🗓️ Term: 2022–Present
🧠 Background: Tribal leader

First tribal President of India.
Second woman President.
Youngest ever elected.
From Odisha’s Santhal tribe.
Known for simplicity and inclusiveness.

📚 Conclusion

India’s Presidents have reflected the nation’s diversity, dignity, and democratic evolution. From freedom fighters to scientists, each has left a unique legacy that has shaped India’s history.

🏛️ 🇮🇳 Presidents of India (1950–Present)