Rajiv Gandhi’s contributions to IT, youth recalled - The HinduPublished - August 20, 2026 10:28 pm IST - HYDERABADFormer Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s contributions to the development of information technology sector and empowerment of youth were recalled at his birth anniversary celebrations held here on Thursday, under the aegis of government adviser V. Hanumantha Rao.Mr. Hanumantha Rao and other Congress leaders including T Jagga Reddy, Anil Kumar Yadav, Shabbir Ali among others paid floral tributes to Rajiv Gandhi’s statue on the occasion. Speaking at the programme, Mr. Hanumantha Rao said Rajiv Gandhi deserved credit for laying the foundation for the growth of the IT sector in the country. Mr Jagga Reddy also recalled the former Prime Minister’s decision to reduce the voting age from 21 to 18 years, describing it as a significant step towards empowering the youth and strengthening their participation in democracy.As part of the celebrations, Mr. Hanumantha Rao organised a Rajiv Gandhi Sadbhavana Run. A large number of students participated in the run and took out a rally. Public representatives, Congress leaders and party workers also joined the programme and recalled the services and contributions of the former Prime Minister.Published - August 20, 2026 10:28 pm ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }