Answer: 

Introduction:

Maulana Abul Kalam Azad was a prominent Indian scholar, freedom fighter, and political leader who played a significant role in both pre-and post-independent India. As a key figure in the Indian National Congress (INC) and the first Minister of Education in independent India, his contributions spanned various fields, including education, national integration, and the freedom struggle.

Body:

Contribution to Pre-Independent India:

• Freedom struggle: Maulana Azad was an active freedom fighter, advocating non-violence and Hindu-Muslim unity. He served as INC president in 1923 and 1940-1946.
• Opposition to the Two-Nation Theory: Azad opposed Jinnah’s Two-Nation Theory and promoted a united, harmonious India for all religions and cultures.
• Journalism and literary works: As a journalist and writer, Azad founded the Urdu newspaper Al-Hilal and authored “India Wins Freedom,” contributing to Indian nationalism and sharing his vision for a united India.

Contribution to Post-Independent India:

• Minister of Education: Maulana Azad established India’s modern education system, promoting research, creating institutions like IITs and UGC, and enhancing education access for all.
• Promotion of Culture and heritage: Azad set up institutions like Sahitya Akademi, Lalit Kala Akademi, and Sangeet Natak Akademi to preserve and promote India’s cultural heritage.
• National integration: Committed to unity and harmony, Azad emphasized secularism and inclusive education, contributing to nation-building in early independent India.

Conclusion:

His leadership in the freedom struggle, commitment to national integration, and pioneering efforts in the field of education laid the foundation for modern India and continue to inspire generations to uphold the principles of unity, secularism, and inclusive development.