New Delhi, Oct 2: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid floral tributes to former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri at Vijay Ghat on his birth anniversary.

He also hailed Shastri's integrity, humility and determination, calling him an "extraordinary statesman".

Taking to his official ‘X’ handle, PM Modi wrote, "Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Ji was an extraordinary statesman whose integrity, humility and determination strengthened India, including during challenging times. He personified exemplary leadership, strength and decisive action."

PM Modi recalled his iconic slogan ‘Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan’, and noted that it ignited a deep sense of patriotism among the people. He added that Shastri continues to inspire the nation in its journey towards building a strong and self-reliant India.

“His clarion call of ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kisan’ ignited a spirit of patriotism among our people. He continues to motivate us in the endeavour of building a strong and self-reliant India,” he added.

It is worth noting that Lal Bahadur Shastri served as the second Prime Minister of India from 1964 until his untimely death in 1966.

Born in Uttar Pradesh in 1904, Shastri passed away in Tashkent on January 11, 1966, at the age of 61, shortly after signing the Tashkent Pact with Pakistan.

A visionary leader, Shastri had a deep understanding of the people's sentiments and steered the nation on the path of progress. His leadership was profoundly shaped by the political philosophy and teachings of Mahatma Gandhi.