Previous Year Question
Who of the following Presidents of India was associated with Trade Union Movement?
V. V. Giri
N. Sanjiva Reddy
K. R. Narayanan
Zakir Hussain
Correct Answer: A
Detailed Solution
Varahagiri Venkata Giri (V. V. Giri) was one of the prominent leaders of the Indian labour and Trade Union Movement. After returning to India, he became actively associated with the freedom struggle as well as the organisation of workers and protection of their rights.
Because of his active role in the labour movement, he became President of the All India Railwaymen’s Federation. He subsequently also served twice as President of the Indian Trade Union Congress—in 1926 and 1942.
His association with labour interests was not confined to Trade Union leadership. He held the Labour and Industry portfolio in the Madras Presidency and, after independence, served as the Union Labour Minister from 1952 to 1954.
He later served as Governor of Uttar Pradesh, Kerala and Mysore and as Vice-President of India. He was the fourth President of India from 24 August 1969 to 24 August 1974.
V. V. Giri → Trade Union Leader → All India Railwaymen’s Federation → Labour Minister → President of India