Morarji Desai (29 February 1896 – 10 April 1995) was the oldest prime minister to take oath at the age of 81 years in 1977. He was the fourth prime minister of India and led the government formed by Janata Party from 24th March 1977 – 28th July 1979. Apart from holding the prime minister's post, Morarji Desai also held other important government posts. He was the second Deputy Prime minister of India from 13th March 1967- 16th July 1969. He was also the minister of finance during his tenure as deputy prime minister. He was the minister of home affairs from 1st July 1978 – 28 July 1979. On the international stage, Morarji Desai was known as a peace activist for his efforts of initiating peace between Pakistan and India.

Morarji Desai was a strict follower of Mahatma Gandhi and joined the freedom struggle under him. he was part of the civil disobedience movement against the British rule in India. He was jailed several times. Owing to his leadership skills he was elected as the revenue minister and home minister of Bombay presidency after the provincial elections held in 1934 and 1937.