List of All Prime Ministers of India (1947-2025), Key Highlights

The Prime Minister of India is the chief executive of the Indian government and holds the most powerful political position in the country. Since India gained independence in 1947, several dynamic leaders have taken on this prestigious role, each contributing to the nation’s political, economic, and social development in their unique ways. In this article, we present a detailed list of all Prime Ministers of India from 1947 to 2025, along with their tenure, political affiliation, and key contributions.

Role of Prime Minister in India

The Prime Minister of India is the head of the government and is responsible for executing the country’s policies and steering the nation’s growth. Appointed by the President, the Prime Minister leads the Council of Ministers and plays a vital role in both domestic and foreign affairs. From Jawaharlal Nehru to Narendra Modi, India has seen leaders with distinct ideologies and leadership styles.

Also Check: List of All Presidents of India

Complete List of All Prime Ministers of India (1947-2025)

Below is a chronological list of all individuals who have served as the Prime Minister of India. This list includes their full name, term of office, and political party.

Acting Prime Ministers of India

At times, interim leadership was required between permanent appointments. These acting Prime Ministers ensured continuity in governance during transitions. Gulzarilal Nanda served twice as acting PM after the deaths of Nehru and Shastri.

Longest and Shortest Serving Prime Ministers

Some Prime Ministers served for extended periods, while others had very short tenures. Nehru was the longest-serving PM, while Vajpayee’s first term lasted just 13 days. Narendra Modi now ranks among the longest-serving PMs after Nehru.

Key Highlights of India’s Prime Ministers

Every Prime Minister has contributed to the country’s development in different ways. Their decisions have impacted India’s democracy, economy, defense, and global relations. Here’s a glimpse at some of the most influential Prime Ministers of India.

1. Jawaharlal Nehru (1947-1964)

Nehru was India’s first Prime Minister and served for 17 years. He laid the foundation of a secular, socialist, and democratic republic. His policies focused on industrial growth, education, and global non-alignment.

2. Lal Bahadur Shastri (1964-1966)

Shastri led India through the 1965 war with Pakistan and promoted agricultural self-reliance. His slogan “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan” became a national motto. He died in office under mysterious circumstances.

3. Indira Gandhi (1966-1977, 1980-1984)

India’s only woman Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi was known for her decisive leadership. She led India to victory in the 1971 war and imposed Emergency in 1975. Her tenure remains one of the most debated in Indian politics.

4. Rajiv Gandhi (1984-1989)

Rajiv Gandhi brought a technology-driven vision to India and modernized its telecom and IT sectors. He emphasized youth empowerment and education reforms. His tenure ended with his tragic assassination in 1991.

5. P. V. Narasimha Rao (1991-1996)

Rao is often called the architect of India’s economic reforms. His liberalization policies opened India’s economy to global markets. He worked closely with economist Dr. Manmohan Singh to initiate crucial structural changes.

6. Atal Bihari Vajpayee (1996, 1998-2004)

Vajpayee’s leadership is remembered for nuclear tests, infrastructure growth, and diplomatic efforts with Pakistan. His government launched the Golden Quadrilateral project. He was respected across party lines for his statesmanship.

7. Dr. Manmohan Singh (2004-2014)

A renowned economist, Singh provided stable governance and maintained economic growth. His UPA government introduced key policies like RTI, RTE, and MNREGA. Despite criticism, he is praised for his integrity and reform-oriented leadership.

8. Narendra Modi (2014-2025)

Modi is known for his bold decisions such as GST, demonetization, and Article 370 abrogation. He launched national missions like Digital India, Swachh Bharat, and Make in India. His leadership continues to shape India’s global image in 2025.